The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby promises to be an electrifying event, with eight of baseball's finest sluggers stepping up to the plate in Atlanta. Each contestant has a unique story, and behind every powerful swing is a pitcher who has played a crucial role in their journey. Here's a closer look at the participants and the individuals who will be throwing to them in this high-stakes competition.

Matt Olson, Atlanta Braves

2025 Home Runs: 17 Matt Olson, a last-minute addition to the Derby, brings experience from his 2021 participation. Eddie Perez, a longtime Braves coach, will be pitching to Olson. Despite the lack of preparation time, Olson’s familiarity with the event and the home-field advantage at Truist Park could be pivotal.

James Wood, Washington Nationals

2025 Home Runs: 24 James Wood, known for his creative bat designs, will have Nationals third base coach Ricky Gutierrez pitching to him. Wood has been advised by teammate Josh Bell to take his time and avoid overcomplicating his swings.

Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays

2025 Home Runs: 23 Junior Caminero, one of the lesser-known competitors, has Rays' major league field coordinator Tomas Francisco on the mound. Francisco’s experience from the 2023 Derby with Randy Arozarena will be invaluable in guiding Caminero through the intense rounds.

Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners

2025 Home Runs: 38 Cal Raleigh, the major league home run leader, will have his father, Todd, pitching to him. In a unique twist, Raleigh’s younger brother will serve as the catcher. Raleigh’s switch-hitting ability and custom bats with a Big Dumper theme add an intriguing layer to his participation.

Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees

2025 Home Runs: 17 Jazz Chisholm Jr. will have his stepfather, Geron Sands, pitching to him. Sands, who has been part of Chisholm’s life since he was 8, brings a deep understanding of Chisholm’s swing and preferences.

Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins

2025 Home Runs: 21 Byron Buxton, a Georgia native, will have Twins third-base coach Tommy Watkins pitching to him. Buxton’s emotional connection to the event and his powerful swings make him a compelling competitor.

Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates

2025 Home Runs: 16 Oneil Cruz will have Pirates assistant coach Stephen Morales pitching to him. Morales, who has extensive experience throwing batting practice, has been instrumental in Cruz’s preparation for the Derby.

Brent Rooker, Athletics

2025 Home Runs: 20 Brent Rooker will have his longtime coach, Joe Caruso, pitching to him. Caruso’s deep understanding of Rooker’s hitting style and their long-standing relationship could be a key factor in Rooker’s performance.

Each of these contestants brings a unique blend of power, strategy, and emotional connection to the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby. As they step up to the plate, their chosen pitchers will be right there with them, sharing in the adrenaline and excitement of this unforgettable event.