Netflix’s first year broadcasting the MLB Home Run Derby was supposed to bring a fresh feel to one of baseball’s biggest events. Instead, much of the conversation online centered on an unexpected guest.

The Athletic's Andrew Marchand evaluates the annual MLB midsummer tradition, which switched to a new format and distribution platform.

The Home Run Derby seems to fit Netflix’s sweet spot of entertainment-heavy sporting events, though its 2026 presentation felt surprisingly subdued.

Netflix’s first year broadcasting the MLB Home Run Derby was supposed to bring a fresh feel to one of baseball’s biggest events. Instead, much of the conversation online centered…