Who Will Reign Supreme at the 2025 Home Run Derby?
So here we are again, one of the most electrifying nights in baseball — the 2025 Home Run Derby is upon us, and this year’s lineup might be one of the most intriguing we’ve seen in a while. What makes it so exciting? For starters, we’re guaranteed a brand-new winner. That’s right, with Pete Alonso — the two-time Derby champ and human wrecking ball — sitting this one out, the stage is wide open for a fresh face to etch their name into Derby history.
Let’s talk about the frontrunner, James Wood of the Washington Nationals. This guy’s power is not just raw — it’s strategic, terrifying, and already breaking records. He’s only 22, but Wood is getting intentionally walked like he’s Barry Bonds in his prime. The Derby is the perfect spotlight for a player like him who’s flying just under the radar because of a struggling Nationals team. If he gets locked in, it’s over.
But don’t sleep on Oneil Cruz of the Pirates — the literal hardest hitter in the Statcast Era. He smashed a ball into the Allegheny River this year with an exit velocity so absurd, it still echoes through Pittsburgh. Sure, his swing is a bit long and loopy — not the textbook Derby stroke — but when you have that kind of raw strength, anything is possible.
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Then there’s Cal Raleigh, the Mariners’ “Big Dumper,” who has already surpassed 35 homers this season. A switch-hitting catcher? That’s already rare, but if he pulls this off, he’ll be the first catcher and switch-hitter ever to win the Derby. History is literally dangling in front of him.
We can’t ignore Matt Olson either — hitting in front of his home crowd in Atlanta, the Braves slugger is stepping in for Ronald Acuña Jr. With 54 homers just two seasons ago, he’s got Derby champion potential written all over him. And who doesn’t love a hometown story?
Then there’s Jazz Chisholm Jr., the Yankees second baseman who brings a cool swagger and relaxed attitude into the Derby. He’s not overthinking it — just planning to go out, have fun, and let his swing do the talking. Despite recent injuries, Jazz insists he’s feeling fine, and he’s got his stepfather, who’s been tossing him BP since childhood, pitching to him. If he gets hot early, his momentum — and charisma — could carry him all the way.
In the end, this year’s Derby feels more like a celebration of baseball’s future than just a power exhibition. These aren’t just sluggers — they’re stars in the making, each ready to claim a moment under the bright lights. And honestly? I have no clue who will win. But I know I won’t be looking away for a second.
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