The big swings may have been the main attraction, but the real entertainment at the Port Days men’s home run derby was in the dugout. Teammates, opponents and friends kept the banter going all afternoon, chirping each batter as high hopes gave way to disappointment one by one.
Zoe Collinson also took home the women’s home run crown, defeating everyone in the first round, including defending champion Jennifer Friesen.
As the event wore on, it looked inevitable that last year’s champion, Hyland Fraser, would walk away with another win. When he came to the plate, three hitters were tied at the top with three home runs each: Darcy Pearson, Damon Reece and Daris Peerless.
Fraser needed at least three to force another tie. But the magic of 2024 was not there this time. He managed just two home runs, leaving the three challengers in disbelief as they prepared for a tie-breaking round.
Reece led off the playoff looking and sounding confident but managed just a single homer. Peerless followed and could not get his swing going either, setting the stage for Pearson.
Pearson’s round did not start the way he wanted. Down to his final pitch, he could be heard telling the dugout, “not to worry, I’m clutch.” True to his word, he sent his last swing over the fence to claim the 2025 Port Days men’s home run derby title.
