2025 MLB Home Run Derby: Stars Wood, Raleigh & Acuña Compete

The MLB Home Run Derby has always been one of baseball’s most celebrated spectacles. The 2025 edition is shaping up to be no exception.

A trio of sluggers—James Wood, Cal Raleigh, and Ronald Acuña Jr.—have already confirmed their participation. Each brings unique power and star power to Truist Park in Atlanta.

Let’s dig into why these hitters stand out. What do they really bring to baseball’s most electrifying night of raw power?

James Wood: A Rising Star Ready for the Big Stage

James Wood is just 22, but he’s already become one of MLB’s most exciting young talents. In only 165 career games, the Washington Nationals’ left-handed slugger has put up a .283/.387/.547 slash line.

He’s got a blend of power, discipline, and consistency that doesn’t usually show up in players this young. This season alone, Wood has launched 22 home runs, and 12 of those are “no doubters.”

No doubters are the kind of homers that, as soon as the bat connects, everyone in the park knows the ball’s gone. That stat screams elite power.

His knack for hitting massive shots has made him a fan favorite. Wood already hit an opposite-field homer at Truist Park before, so he’s shown he can shine under big lights.

Why James Wood is Perfect for the Derby

Wood’s ability to hit monstrous home runs—and his calm, almost unfazed confidence as a newcomer—make him a thrilling addition to the Derby. Unlike veterans who might see the event as just another day, Wood brings a fresh, electric vibe.

It’s fun to see a young star inject new life into a tradition built on power. Nationals fans and baseball fans in general are probably eager to see how he stacks up against the big names.

Cal Raleigh: A Catcher Making Home Run History

Joining Wood is Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who’s been rewriting the record books all season. Raleigh, a switch-hitter with a ton of raw power, leads MLB with 32 home runs.

He became the first catcher ever to hit 30 homers before the All-Star break. That’s wild for his position.

Raleigh is on pace to break Salvador Perez’s single-season home run record for catchers (48). He’s just two shy of his own career high of 34, so the Derby stage fits him perfectly.

He brings both big talent and a shot at history into the competition.

Ronald Acuña Jr.: The Host City’s Superstar

When the Home Run Derby lands in Atlanta, who else but Ronald Acuña Jr. to represent the city? The Braves outfielder and former MVP is making his third appearance in the event.

He’s got all the momentum after battling back from an ACL injury in 2024. Acuña’s hitting .385 with nine home runs in just 29 games this season.

He doesn’t lead his team in home runs right now, but honestly, it doesn’t matter. His superstar status in Atlanta is untouchable.

Whether it’s his energy, the way he entertains, or just pure talent as a four-time All-Star, Acuña adds a spark to this year’s Derby lineup.

A Proven Derby Veteran

Acuña’s been here before, and that counts for something. He’s already participated in two Home Run Derbies, so he knows what it takes to thrive in the spotlight.

His experience, plus his drive to put on a show for the home crowd, makes him one of the most compelling names in the 2025 field. Should be quite a night.

What’s Next for the 2025 Home Run Derby?

James Wood, Cal Raleigh, and Ronald Acuña Jr. are officially in. That means half of the 2025 Home Run Derby field is ready to go.

Baseball fans are waiting to see who the other five participants will be. Will a new crop of young stars show up, or could a few legendary veterans throw their hats in the ring?

The stage at Truist Park is definitely set for something special. Whether you’re pulling for James Wood, Cal Raleigh, or the hometown favorite Acuña Jr., this Derby should have no shortage of power and wild moments.

 
Here is the source article for this story: 2025 MLB Home Run Derby: Nationals star James Wood joins Mariners’ Cal Raleigh, Braves’ Ronald Acuña Jr.