Ronald Acuña Jr. has shared insights into his exciting decision to compete in the 2025 Home Run Derby, taking place at his home park in Atlanta’s Truist Park. This year, he will be joined by fellow sluggers Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics and Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the New York Yankees, who are also looking forward to showcasing their power-hitting skills.
Rooker, who recently expressed his enthusiasm on Instagram, is set to make history as the first Athletics player to participate in the Home Run Derby since Matt Olson in 2021. With a solid batting average of .270 and 19 home runs so far this season, Rooker is eager to demonstrate his hitting prowess. He noted, “Competing in the Home Run Derby has always been a dream of mine,” emphasizing that he doesn’t plan to change his approach for the event, as he’s always aimed for home runs with every swing.
Chisholm, currently experiencing a breakout season with 17 home runs, is thrilled to join the competition for the first time. He is the seventh Yankee to participate in the Derby, following in the footsteps of notable winners like Tino Martinez and Aaron Judge. With his recent performance, including two homers in a game just before the Derby, Chisholm is poised to make an impactful showing.
Other participants in the Home Run Derby include notable players such as Byron Buxton from Minnesota, Junior Caminero from Tampa Bay, Oneil Cruz from Pittsburgh, Cal Raleigh from Seattle, and James Wood from Washington. According to ESPN BET, Raleigh is a leading favorite to win the event, with Cruz and Acuña following closely behind.
The format of the Derby allows each participant to hit for up to three minutes, with the potential for bonus outs based on distance hit, leading to an exciting showdown among the best in the league.
With stars like Acuña, Rooker, and Chisholm entering the competition, fans can anticipate a thrilling display of power hitting that could bring new records and unforgettable moments to this year’s Home Run Derby. The excitement surrounding these athletes is palpable, and it promises a night of entertainment for baseball fans around the world.