Exciting Stars Join 2025 Home Run Derby Lineup

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is shaping up to be one of the wildest displays of power baseball fans have seen in a while. Eight of the league’s biggest sluggers will take the stage at Truist Park in Atlanta.

It’s set for Monday, July 14. This year feels special—there’s a real buzz, especially with Braves fans hoping to see Ronald Acuña Jr. put on a show at home.

Seven participants are already confirmed, leaving just one spot up for grabs. The anticipation for that last announcement is honestly kind of fun—who’s it going to be?

A Star-Studded Field of Sluggers

The 2025 lineup is a mix of fresh faces and proven hitters. Brent Rooker from the Oakland Athletics just said yes, making him the seventh confirmed slugger.

Rooker, a two-time All-Star, is showing last season wasn’t a fluke. He’s still mashing and looks set for another 30-plus home run year.

With one spot left, fans are left guessing and speculating. It’s anyone’s guess who’ll round out the field.

Who’s Already Locked In?

Here’s who’s in so far, and it’s a pretty balanced group:

• Ronald Acuña Jr. (Atlanta Braves): Acuña gets the rare chance to take hacks in front of his home crowd, and you just know Braves fans will bring the energy.
• Brent Rooker (Oakland Athletics): Rooker’s got raw power and momentum. He’s been a surprise for some, but not for those who’ve watched him closely.
• Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays): Only 22, Caminero already has over 20 homers this season. Watching him develop has been a treat.
• Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates): Cruz brings a crazy mix of power and athleticism. He’s unpredictable in all the best ways.
• Byron Buxton (Minnesota Twins): Buxton, a Georgia native, is back on familiar turf. He’s having a career year in home runs and just picked up another All-Star selection.
• James Wood (Washington Nationals): Wood, another 22-year-old, is making waves with his bat. His growth at the plate has been something to watch.
• Cal Raleigh (Seattle Mariners): People call him “Big Dumper.” Raleigh’s got charisma and some of the fastest hands in the box—should be fun to see what he does.

Notable Absences from This Year’s Lineup

Some big names aren’t making an appearance this year. Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Teoscar Hernández, Kyle Schwarber, and Pete Alonso all decided to sit this one out.

That leaves the spotlight for newer faces and a few under-the-radar players. It’s a chance for them to grab some attention in Atlanta.

The Derby’s New Format: A Test of Skill and Stamina

The Derby switched things up in 2024, and the changes are sticking. All eight sluggers compete in one big opening round, and only the top four move on, based on home run count.

Rounds have both time and pitch limits, so hitters need to be quick and accurate. The new setup keeps things moving and adds a bit of chaos, which fans seem to love.

ESPN will broadcast the event live. It all happens the night after the MLB Draft, making for a packed few days of baseball action leading up to the All-Star Game.

Don’t Miss It: The Countdown to July 14

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby is almost here, and Truist Park is buzzing with anticipation. The league’s biggest sluggers are gearing up to put on a serious show.

Maybe you’re pulling for Ronald Acuña Jr., the hometown hero. Or you might be curious to see what rising stars like Junior Caminero and James Wood can do.

Honestly, even if you just like the rush of watching baseballs soar into the night, this year’s Derby is shaping up to be something special. It’s a wild ride for any baseball fan, no matter who you cheer for.

The eighth and final participant hasn’t been announced yet, so there’s still a bit of mystery in the air. Atlanta’s ready, and so are the fans.

Could a new champion step up? Maybe Acuña will take the crown for Braves Country. Either way, this Derby feels like one people will talk about for years.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Home Run Derby 2025 field: Junior Caminero, Oneil Cruz, Byron Buxton latest players confirmed to compete