Major League Baseball is gearing up for an exciting All-Star Week, with the highly anticipated Home Run Derby set to showcase some of the league’s top power hitters. The event will take place at Truist Park in suburban Atlanta, the home of the Atlanta Braves and the venue for Tuesday’s All-Star Game.
This year’s lineup features eight formidable sluggers, including Cal Raleigh, who leads the majors in home runs, and Oneil Cruz, boasting the highest average exit velocity on batted balls for the season. Additionally, two players, Matt Olson and Byron Buxton, hail from Georgia, adding a local flavor to the competition.
The 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. on Monday, July 14, and fans can catch all the action live on ESPN and ESPN2, with streaming available on ESPN+.
The format of the Derby is designed to highlight the hitters’ skills. Each participant will have three minutes in the first round to hit as many home runs as possible, with a limit of 40 swings. After the initial round, hitters will get a minimum of three bonus outs, and they can earn additional bonus outs with long home runs. The four players with the highest home run totals will advance to the semifinal matchups, culminating in a final round among the last two remaining competitors.
Teoscar Hernandez, last year’s champion, will not defend his title this time around, as he won the 2024 Derby by outslugging Bobby Witt Jr. in a thrilling final.
As the Home Run Derby approaches, fans are filled with anticipation, looking forward to an electrifying display of power hitting and sportsmanship. This year’s event promises to be a highlight of the All-Star festivities, showcasing the best of Major League Baseball talent.