Defending champion Robinson Cano has already been eliminated from the 2012 Home Run Derby in Kansas City. He hit zero home runs in his turn at-bat, finishing last among the eight competitors in front of an unfriendly crowd. The pro-Royals crowd, upset that hometown hero Billy Butler was passed over by Cano for the American League team, cheered as the New York Yankees second baseman popped up for his 10th out.
Cano was at least proven wise in his AL-team selections. The Toronto Blue Jays' Jose Bautista is the current leader with 11 home runs. Mark Trumbo of the Los Angeles Angels and Prince Fielder of the Detroit Tigers hit seven and five home runs, respectively, to advance to the second round.
Carlos Beltran of the St. Louis Cardinals was the National League's only member to make the Top 4 in the first round, tying Trumbo with seven homers.
For a running commentary on all of the Derby's action, check out Jeff Sullivan's StoryStream at Baseball Nation.
For more on Cano and the Yankees, please be sure to check out Pinstripe Alley. Also take a look at SB Nation and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.