Josh Hamilton at the 2008 Home Run Derby

Josh Hamilton, the Texas Rangers’ All-Star who recently overcame drug addiction to restart his baseball career thrilled the crowd on Monday night for the 2008 Home Run Derby at Yankee Stadium. He hit 28 home runs in the first round to break Bobby Abreu’s old record of 24 in a single round. The most impressive part came during an incredible 13-swing stretch where every ball he connected with left the yard.

With his slick left-handed swing and undeniable hitting power, Hamilton seemed the only choice to take advantage of Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch. He cleared the deep fences without a hitch, hitting three shots farther than 500 feet, including his longest, estimated at 518.

In a bit of a letdown, Hamilton didn’t actually win the overall title - that went to Minnesota Twins 1B Justin Morneau, who took down Josh Hamilton in the final 5-3. The full capacity crowd was chanting his name during that awesome first round, and his feat won’t be forgotten by anyone watching that day.