The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is set to take place on Monday at 8 p.m. ET, leading into the All-Star Game festivities. Among the eight participants, there are a variety of promising talents, including Atlanta’s Matt Olson, who is a fan favorite, and Seattle’s Cal Raleigh, who holds the title of betting favorite. Notably, two rising stars, 22-year-olds James Wood and Junior Caminero, will be aiming for a memorable debut in the event.
This year’s format will have each player face 40 pitches in the first round, with the top four advancing to the semifinals based on their performance before moving on to the final, which will consist of 27 pitches. Raleigh, with betting odds at +280, leads the pack, followed closely by Oneil Cruz (+300) and Wood (+450). Olson, recently added to the lineup, is positioned as the fourth favorite at +750.
Expectations are high, particularly for Raleigh, the MLB home run leader with 36 homers this season. However, his unique decision to hit from both sides of the plate could complicate his performance, as evidenced by past history with athletes like Adley Rutschman, who struggled with this strategy during the 2023 Derby. Additionally, Raleigh’s lack of familiarity with Truist Park, where he has played only two games and had just four at-bats, could impact his performance based on his adjustment to the field’s dimensions.
Interestingly, a historical trend to consider is that no catcher has ever claimed victory in the MLB Home Run Derby, which poses a question about endurance and performance typical of the catching role as the season progresses. Raleigh has faced challenges recently, seeing a dip in his batting average to .107 for July after solid performances earlier in the season.
In light of these factors, expert Matt Severance offers his insights and predictions on who may come out as the winner in what promises to be an exciting showdown. Enthusiasts excited for the 2025 Derby can look forward to a night filled with noteworthy performances and memorable moments.
As the event draws near, anticipation builds, and fans are left wondering whether this could be the year we see a fresh champion crowned in the historic 39-year tradition of the Home Run Derby.