Byron Buxton, fresh off his second MLB All-Star Game selection this year, has officially declared his participation in the 2025 Home Run Derby. The Minnesota Twins outfielder enters the event amid one of the most impressive seasons of his career, making the Derby a highly anticipated showdown featuring some of baseball’s top sluggers.
Competition Lineup and Notable Absences
Buxton will compete alongside notable players including Ronald Acuña Jr. from the Atlanta Braves, Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, and James Wood from the Washington Nationals. Several star sluggers who were expected to join the contest will not be participating this year. Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber, Mets’ two-time Home Run Derby winner Pete Alonso, and Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. have all opted out, citing reasons ranging from injuries to personal decisions.
Buxton’s Breakout Season Sets Stage for Derby
This season, 31-year-old Buxton has delivered career-best numbers with 20 home runs, 53 RBIs, and a .270 batting average, putting him on a trajectory to surpass his previous personal records in home runs and RBI. Currently, Buxton ranks fifth in home runs in the American League and is tied for 12th overall across Major League Baseball, underscoring his rising power-hitting profile.
Rivals’ Strong Performances Heighten Derby Stakes
The defending Derby title will be fiercely contested, especially with Acuña enjoying a strong season since his late May return, having hit nine home runs in 40 games. Acuña also gains a home-field edge as the All-Star Weekend takes place in Atlanta. Meanwhile, 22-year-old James Wood is emerging as a formidable contender with 23 homers and 67 RBIs this season. His recent achievement of drawing four intentional walks in a single game against the Los Angeles Angels highlights the respect he commands from pitchers.
Cal Raleigh’s Remarkable Catcher Milestones
Cal Raleigh stands out as one of this year’s most exciting Derby entrants, having set a new career high with 35 home runs and vying for a personal best in RBIs with 74. He leads all major leaguers in home runs and holds the record for most homers by a catcher before the All-Star break. His powerful bat is expected to make him a serious contender for the Derby crown.
A Battle Among Baseball’s Best Power Hitters
With the best power hitters of the season converging for the Home Run Derby, Byron Buxton faces significant challenges but also a prime opportunity to claim his first Derby title. The competition promises thrilling moments as these elite athletes showcase their strength and skill at All-Star Weekend in Atlanta.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Byron Buxton healthy?
A. Byron Buxton is in great shape and playing well for the Twins. The Minnesota Twins’ outfielder is famous for his mix of strength and quickness. Recently, he’s been performing at a very high level, possibly the best he’s ever played.
Q. How fast can Byron Buxton run?
A. One way to tell how fit Buxton is this season is by looking at his sprint speed. Statcast shows he runs at an average of 30.2 feet per second on the bases. This is the second-fastest speed in the majors, just behind Kansas City’s Bobby Witt Jr. and it’s Buxton’s top speed since 2019.