The 2025 Home Run Derby has its participants!
The expected MLB All-Star Home Run Derby 2025 is just around the corner, and we already know the competitors who will seek to take the title. The event will be held at Truist Park in Atlanta on July 14th. The first to confirm his participation was the local idol of the Braves, Ronald Acuña Jr., followed by other outstanding home run hitters.- Ronald Acuña Jr. (Atlanta Braves)
- Cal Raleigh (Seattle Mariners)
- James Wood (Washington Nationals)
- Byron Buxton (Minnesota Twins)
- Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates)
- Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays)
- Brent Rooker (Athletics)
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. (New York Yankees)
Analysis of the participants and their possibilities
Let’s analyze the possibilities of each of the participants to win the prize this year.Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
Home Runs in 2025: 11. Longest Distance: 467 feet.Why he could win: Acuña has shown a great level since he returned from his knee surgery. Playing at home, in front of his fans, could give him an advantage. His raw power is evident, and since 2023, he has the longest average home run distance in the league.
Why he might not win: He already competed in 2019 and 2022, losing both times to Pete Alonso. The pressure of playing at home could also be a factor against him.
Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners
Home Runs in 2025: 36. Longest Distance: 440 feet.
Why he could win: Raleigh is having a spectacular season. His power is natural and could be ideal for the Derby. His calmness could be an advantage.Why he might not win: He’s a receiver and has had a heavy workload. Stamina is key in this contest, and it could be an issue for him. No receiver has ever won the Derby.
James Wood, Washington Nationals
Home Runs in 2025: 24. Longest Distance: 451 feet.
Why he could win: Wood has the potential to surprise. His exit velocity and hard-hit rate are impressive.
Why he might not win: His swing is not a pure uppercut and his launch angle is low.
Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins
Home Runs in 2025: 20. Longest Distance: 479 feet.
Why they could win: Their raw power is notable. Their bat speed is high.
Why he might not win: He’s a bit older and the Derby is usually for younger players.Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates
Home Runs in 2025: 16. Longest Distance: 463 feet.
Why he could win: Cruz has the strongest hit of the 2025 season. His bat speed is elite.
Why he might not win: Will he be able to stay focused in the moment? His long swing might not be the most efficient.
Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays
Home Runs in 2025: 22. Longest Distance: 425 feet.Why he could win: Caminero has great raw power and impressive bat speed.
Why he might not win: He tends to hit the ball on the ground, which could be a problem in the Derby.
Brent Rooker, Athletics
Home Runs in 2025: 19. Longest Distance: 440 feet.Why he could win: Rooker has been one of the best home run hitters for three seasons and has an optimal launch angle.Why they might not win: They might not have the same raw power as other competitors.
Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees
Home Runs in 2025: 17. Longest Distance: 442 feet.Why he could win: Chisholm has performed well and is among the MLB leaders in categories related to home runs.
Why he might not win: He is not the biggest and most powerful slugger.
