2025 Home Run Derby: Participants, Viewing Details, and Start Time

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events in Major League Baseball. Thanks to a series of new rules and a strong lineup of participants, there’s a real buzz in the air.

This year, Truist Park—the home of the Atlanta Braves—gets the spotlight. On Monday, July 14th, the annual spectacle will kick off at 8:00 p.m. ET, and the stadium lights will be blazing.

With a revamped format and fresh faces stepping up, fans should expect some real fireworks. Both on the field and, honestly, probably in the sky too. It’s going to be a night to remember.

When and Where: Your Guide to Tuning In

Circle Monday, July 14th on your calendar. Truist Park is hosting the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby, and the gates open at 8:00 p.m. ET.

The event is pulling in baseball fans from all over to see elite hitters take their swings under the Atlanta skyline. If you can’t make it to the stadium, don’t stress—it’ll be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN.com, MLB.com, and MLB.tv. No matter where you are, you won’t miss a home run.

A Showcase of Star Power: Participants Confirmed So Far

This year’s derby brings a mix of veteran sluggers and rising stars. Only four participants have been officially confirmed so far, but they’re expected to put on a show as they chase the crown.

Some big names have declined invitations, which leaves everyone guessing about who’ll fill out the rest of the eight-man lineup.

• Established stars: Watch for experienced heavy hitters who know how to put on a power display.
• Emerging talents: New faces are ready to take their shot against MLB’s best.

Fresh Format: What’s New in the 2025 Derby?

This year’s derby shakes things up with some notable changes to the format. The new structure adds a twist, pushing players to show off their skill, stamina, and strategy.

Key Format Changes Include:

• Opening round: All eight participants compete, and the top four advance based on total home runs.
• Seeding system: First-round performance decides the semifinal matchups, so every swing matters.
• Longest home run tiebreaker: Distance counts—a massive shot could be the difference-maker.
• Maximum pitch rule: Each round ends when the pitch limit is hit or time runs out.

Rounds move fast. The first two last three minutes each, and the final round is just two minutes. Batters also get one 45-second timeout per round, but bonus periods are off the table.

Deciding the Winner: Tiebreakers and Rules

If there’s a tie in the semifinals or championship, a one-minute swing-off will break it. That’s a real test of nerves and endurance, and it’s bound to bring some edge-of-your-seat moments.

Last year, Teoscar Hernández took the title after a tense showdown with Bobby Witt Jr.—14 home runs to 13 in the final round. His poise and focus under pressure set the bar for this year’s contenders, who’ll need to dig deep if they want to claim the crown in 2025.

The Countdown to Atlanta

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is almost here. Truist Park’s about to become the center of the baseball universe.

Fans can look forward to wild swings and jaw-dropping home runs. Top hitters will battle for bragging rights, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good slugfest?

Maybe you’ll be in Atlanta, maybe you’ll be watching from your couch. Either way, it’s going to be a wild ride for anyone who loves baseball.

Will a seasoned veteran take the trophy, or could a new face surprise everyone? The new rules, fresh talent, and the Atlanta crowd’s energy—it’s a recipe for something unforgettable this July.

 
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