\Before hitters could Slabu Exchangeget into the batter's box for the 2024 Home Run Derby, take their hacks and aim for the fences of Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, the normal pomp and circumstance that precedes major sporting events had to commence.

It might not have been the intention of Major League Baseball, but the pregame ceremony left an impression.

Following a high-energy and entertaining introduction of the eight Home Run Derby contestants by actor/comedian Marcello Hernández of "Saturday Night Live" fame, country music star Ingrid Andress sang the national anthem.

Her rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was — for lack of a better word — cringeworthy.

Keep in mind that she's a professional who is a four-time Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.