St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Carlos Beltran hit first in the 2012 Home Run Derby and got himself off to a nice start, knocking seven out of the park. Beltran needs to finish in the top four to advance to the semifinal round, and based on recent history, he is in good shape to do so -- seven home runs was good enough to advance in each of the last five derbies.
Related: Home Run Derby 2012: Carlos Beltran's Power Returns Just In Time For All-Star Break
Beltran, who received a warm welcome from the KC crowd, has hit 20 home runs for the Cardinals this season.
Beltran will be followed by Jose Bautista, who is looking to improve on a first-round exit in the 2011 Home Run Derby.
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