2023 Hot Dog Derby | Championship Belt Goes To…..

Ketchup Wins Final Derby Race and 2023 Championship

Final Season Standings

In the last race of the year, it came down to the chance of being a 3-way tie if Onion was able to pull off the win. As the race began it was Mustard and Ketchup leading most of the race with Mustard pulling away as they approached the finish line. Victory appeared as if Mustard would be holding the coveted Championship Belt. Just as he was about to cross the finish line a mysterious hooded person clotheslined him knocking him to the ground and Ketchup ran through the finish line for the win. As Mustard lay on the ground the hooded figure pulled it back and lifted his cap and sunglasses off and it was no other than Andre Knott who had knocked him to the ground and getting his revenge for the taunts that Mustard had thrown his way all year long. On to 2024!

History and 2023 Championship Belt

In 2005, the Cleveland Indians followed the trend of many MLB teams and added an in-game mascot race to their gameday fan experience. The Indians started the now-famous Hot Dog Derby with three racing hot dog mascots: Onion, Mustard, and Ketchup.

What started out as only a mascot race in the 5th inning has evolved into an unforgettable experience for Indians’ fans at the ballpark and beyond. Over the years, the Hot Dog Macots have grown their presence at games, in the community, and on social media.

Before the Guardians’ home opener this season, the Hot Dogs announced on Twitter that they are introducing a new championship belt for the 2023 season. The belt, which features gold plating and silver emblems of the Guardians of Transportation statues, the Guardians’ ‘C’ logo, and hot dogs, will be awarded to the winner of each race that takes place at the end of the fifth inning of every Guardians home game. The recipient of the belt will hold the title until the next race. The Hot Dog Derby gained national attention during the 2022 season due to Mustard’s long losing streak, but the mascot eventually secured its first win on October 1st.