South Carolina commit PJ Morlando wins 2023 HS Home Run Derby Champion

South Carolina commit PJ Morlando won the 2023 High School Home Run Derby on Monday with eight home runs in the finals. He defeated uncommitted slugger Samuel Richardson.

Morlando had advanced to the finals after Saturday’s preliminaries that included a two-minute, 30-second first round and a 90-second second round.

“Just getting that experience to hit in front of this many fans,” Morlando said on Saturday, via MLB.com. “There’s a chance that they’re all going to be cheering our names and getting hyped up after every home run. I can’t wait. And being around these big leaguers, that’s going to be beneficial for our learning process.”

Morlando, who committed to the Gamecocks last week, attends Summerville (S.C.) High. Perfect Game ranks him as the No. 3 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle.

He ranks as Prospect Live’s No. 13 prospect for the 2024 MLB Draft.

“Morlando might be the most physically imposing high school bat in the 2024 class with exceptional bat speed and high contact rates to boot,” Prospect Live’s scouting report reads. “Morlando has long had the bat speed to out-slug his peers, but it’s his mature approach and willingness to take the walk that has scouts raising eyebrows.”

South Carolina commit PJ Morlando not the only Home Run Derby winner Monday

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. won the 2023 MLB Home Run Derby on Monday. He defeated Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena in the finals.

Guerrero hit 25 while Arozarena could only muster 24.

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