Brent Rooker is preparing to make his debut at the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby, held next week in Atlanta during All-Star Weekend. As one of eight announced participants, Rooker will join notable players such as Cal Raleigh, Byron Buxton, Oneil Cruz, Junior Caminero, Ronald Acuna Jr., and James Wood, with one more competitor yet to be named. His inclusion highlights his growing reputation as a power hitter and brings excitement as he represents the Athletics.
Rooker’s Rise as a Leading Power Hitter in the American League
Rooker has steadily become one of the American League’s most formidable sluggers over the past two seasons with the Oakland Athletics. His breakthrough year came last season when he posted career-highs: a .293 batting average, 160 hits, 39 home runs, 26 doubles, two triples, and 112 RBIs. This performance marked a significant milestone for the former Mississippi State Bulldog and showcased his ability to produce consistently at the major league level.
In the current season, Rooker has continued to build on his success, recording 99 hits in 94 games, batting .270 with 19 doubles, 19 home runs, and 54 RBIs. Over the last three years, his total of 88 homers ranks ninth in the MLB, placing him among elite hitters including Aaron Judge, Pete Alonso, Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, and Kyle Schwarber.
A Storied College Career and Family Support as Rooker Prepares for Derby
Brent Rooker’s selection to the Derby is the first for an Athletics player since 2021, making this a memorable experience for both him and his family, who will travel from their home in Memphis to Atlanta. During his time at Mississippi State, Rooker was an exceptional slugger, batting .350 across four seasons with 186 hits and 37 home runs. He was the second SEC player ever to win the Triple Crown in 2017, leading the league in batting average, hits, and home runs that year. This achievement placed him alongside Diamond Dawg Rafael Palmeiro before being drafted 35th overall by the Minnesota Twins in the 2017 MLB draft.
James Wood Adds More Mississippi State Talent to the Field
Joining Rooker as a Mississippi State alumnus in the Derby is James Wood, a former signee who chose to forgo college to enter the 2021 draft. Wood was selected in the second round by the San Diego Padres and made his major league debut with the Washington Nationals last season. As a rookie, Wood appeared in 79 games and hit nine home runs. This season, he has elevated his performance with 24 home runs and a .287 batting average.
Rooker’s Place Among Mississippi State Baseball Legends
Rooker now belongs to an exclusive group of former Mississippi State players who have participated in the All-Star Week festivities. The university has produced only 13 All-Star Game selections in its history, with Rooker achieving this honor twice. He joins seven players who have made multiple All-Star appearances, including notable names such as Will Clark, Jonathan Papelbon, Rafael Palmeiro, Boo Ferriss, Buddy Myer, and Brandon Woodruff.
Event Schedule and Viewing Information
The Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday night at 7 p.m. and will be broadcast live on ESPN. The following evening, the All-Star Game will take place Tuesday at 7 p.m. on FOX, giving fans a full slate of exciting baseball action to look forward to during the weekend in Atlanta.
“Competing in the Home Run Derby has always been a dream of mine,”
Rooker shared on social media.
“Can’t wait to make it happen next week in Atlanta! See ya there!”
—Brent Rooker, MLB Player
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Can Brent Rooker play 1b?
A. People often discuss Rooker’s hitting skills, but they may forget that he was once an outfielder known for his speed and strong arm. Now, he plays as a first baseman.
Q. Is Brent Rooker married?
A. Terry Brent Rooker, Jr. initially joined the Twins through scout Derrick Dunbar. His wife, Allie, works as a nurse in the ER. They have a daughter named Blair. Rooker graduated from Evangelical Christian School in Germantown, Tennessee, where he helped lead the football team to the Division 2-A State Championship Game as their starting quarterback. He was recognized in 2013 for his performance.
Q. Is Brent Rooker a DH?
A. Brent Rooker, the designated hitter for the A’s, earned a spot on the American League All-Star team. This is for the 95th MLB All-Star Game, happening on Tuesday, July 15, in Atlanta. This marks the second time in his career that he has been chosen.
Q. Who is Brent Rooker’s wife?
A. Brent Rooker is clearly devoted to his wife and children. On August 14, 2024, Allie Oliver had their second daughter, Blake Eloise.