The MLB All-Star Break is upon us, bringing with it the excitement of the Home Run Derby. This event showcases the league’s top sluggers competing to hit the most home runs. Featuring a blend of seasoned stars and rising talent, fans are in for an entertaining night. The big question: who will claim the 2025 Home Run Derby championship?
So far, four players have confirmed their participation in the 2025 Home Run Derby, though several prominent players have declined their invitations this year. More participants are expected to be announced as the event date approaches.
The Derby is set to begin on Monday, July 14th at 8 PM. Fans can catch the live broadcast on ESPN, ESPN.com, MLB.com, and MLB.TV. The venue for this year’s exciting competition is Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves in Atlanta, Georgia.
Regarding the format for 2025, all eight competitors will battle it out in the opening round, with the top four advancing to the semi-finals. Seeding will be determined based on the number of home runs hit in the first round, with the longest home run serving as a tiebreaker. Notably, the knockout round begins in the semi-finals rather than earlier. This year’s Derby introduces new pitch restrictions: rounds end after reaching the maximum pitch count or time limit. The first two rounds last three minutes, the final lasts two minutes, and batters are allowed one 45-second timeout (except in the bonus period). Ties in the semi-finals or finals trigger an additional 60-second round.
Last year’s champion was Teoscar Hernández, who triumphed over 13-year-old Bobby Whitt Jr. with 14 home runs in the final showdown.
Fan Take: The Home Run Derby continues to be a thrilling highlight of the MLB All-Star festivities, blending established stars with emerging players to showcase raw power and skill. This year’s new format and pitch rules add fresh dynamics that could make the competition even more engaging and unpredictable, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
