David Wright and Robinson Cano will be the captains for the HR derby, each picking three from their league to participate in this year’s Derby. In theory, they can choose whoever they want, although I wouldn’t be surprised if MLB makes some heavy suggestions and would block if Robinson Cano picked a pitcher to participate, or something.

But, anyway, who should Cano and Wright pick?

I have some ideas after the jump:

First off, there are basically two things that make a successful Home Run Derby participant as far as giving the people what they want: number of home runs, and distance. There is also a third thing: buzz. When McGwire went into Fenway, there was buzz. When Hamilton was going into Yankee Stadium, there was buzz. Picking a guy who has some buzz around him would be great.

So, take Robinson Cano’s American League team. Adding Chris Davis, who leads the majors with 21 homers, is a given, but it would also be wise to select Mike Trout, who is both a young superstar and also has the fourth highest average HR distance as of this writing. To round out the team, Cano could pay homage to his Dominican roots by selecting somebody like Nelson Cruz or Jose Bautista, both sluggers who hit lots of home runs and often send them a long way. Sadly, David Ortiz has said he’s retired from the Derby. Of course, Cano could also choose a buzz-worthy selection, such as Miguel Cabrera. The idea of Cabrera and Trout being in the same derby, after all, would make ESPN salivate.

Now, the National League. Like the AL, the HR leader for the league should be selected. As of this writing, it’s Domonic Brown of the Phillies, who is having a breakout season. He should also pick Justin Upton, who has the highest average HR distance in baseball this season as of this writing. For his final pick, he should go with a buzz-worthy pick in Evan Gattis, AKA “El Oso Blanco”, the journeyman catcher who had been out of baseball for years working various odd jobs only to return to the game to be one of the biggest surprises this season.

Alas, the injury that hit Giancarlo Stanton earlier this year means he probably won’t be an All-Star, so his legendary batting practice displays will once again be hidden from our view. Curses!

Anyway, that’s what I think would be an ideal Home Run Derby… how about you?