The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is set for July 14, with most of the eight-player field already confirmed. Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. will headline the event at his home stadium, Truist Field, while the latest addition is Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero. This leaves just two spots open for other competitors.
Teoscar Hernández, the reigning champion from the 2024 Derby where he defeated Bobby Witt Jr., has opted out of defending his title this year.
Here are the confirmed participants for the 2025 Home Run Derby:
– **Junior Caminero** (Rays): The 22-year-old had a standout first full MLB season, hitting over 20 home runs and earning a spot in the AL All-Star roster as a replacement.
– **Oneil Cruz** (Pirates): Announced his participation as well. Despite lower home run totals compared to others, his impressive Statcast metrics make him a contender to watch.
– **Byron Buxton** (Twins): The Twins outfielder is having a career year and is enthusiastic about returning to Atlanta for this opportunity, expressing the importance of this homecoming to him.
– **James Wood** (Nationals): The young 6-foot-7 outfielder is having a break-out season, recently becoming a target for intentional walks, a rare feat that recalls the days of Barry Bonds.
– **Cal Raleigh** (Mariners): Leading the league in home runs, Raleigh is enjoying a remarkable season both offensively and defensively.
– **Ronald Acuña Jr.** (Braves): The local favorite is back on the diamond after recovering from an injury. He hopes to showcase his power and skill in front of his hometown crowd.
Notably, several prominent players have declined invitations, including Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. These absences will change the dynamics of the competition, as the focus shifts to the powerful hitters confirmed to compete.
The rules for this Derby have evolved, likely continuing from the 2024 format, which saw competitors pooled in a single round to determine the top contenders rather than traditional matchups, although MLB has not yet confirmed specifics for 2025.
This event is slated to draw significant attention, especially with the excitement from fans in Atlanta and the presence of strong competitors. The Home Run Derby has always been a highlight of the MLB All-Star festivities, and this year promises to be no different as it showcases some of baseball’s most electrifying power hitters.