The Midsummer Classic is just around the corner, and it’s almost time to cast votes for the MLB All-Star Game. This week marks the end of the first phase of voting, with player selections narrowing down to determine who will start in the All-Star event.
But it’s not just the All-Star Game that gets people excited—there’s also the Home Run Derby, which traditionally draws a big crowd. While the participants haven’t been announced yet, there are six players looking to take part this year.
Cal Raleigh, C, Seattle Mariners
Based on his nickname alone, Cal Raleigh seems like a solid pick for both the All-Star Game and the Home Run Derby. However, there’s more to him than just a catchy name.
He’s having one of the best offensive seasons for catchers and switch hitters we’ve seen in a while. As the Seattle Mariners head into Tuesday’s games, Raleigh boasts 32 home runs, setting him up for a potential record-breaking season among catchers. His impressive total includes a lead over the home runs hit by switch hitters in a single season, which hasn’t been surpassed since 1961.
He definitely deserves a spot in the Home Run Derby.
Ellie de la Cruz, Cincinnati Reds
Ellie de la Cruz made his All-Star debut last season but turned down the opportunity to participate in the Home Run Derby. He felt it wasn’t the right time, commenting that the swings were too strenuous.
This year, though, might be the perfect moment for him to give it a shot.
With 18 home runs this season, including a remarkable one at Kansas City Falls, de la Cruz is anticipated to impress at Truist Park next month.
Even if I was hoping he’d sit it out again, I’d really like to see him at the Derby this summer.
Oneil Cruz, SS/CF, Pittsburgh Pirates
The excitement of the Home Run Derby often comes from watching players hit balls with incredible power. That’s what we can expect from Oneil Cruz this season.
This Pirates superstar leads the league in exit velocity at 96.5 mph—they’re saying some of his 13 home runs this year are practically out of this world. For instance, one of his shots against the Milwaukee Brewers clocked in at an incredible exit speed of 122.9 mph, a figure that makes the velocity of top F1 cars look slow.
Will his home runs surpass those speeds in the Derby? I think it might be a stretch, but we’ll see.
Junior Kaminero, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays
Oneil Cruz isn’t the only player making waves. Junior Kaminero from the Rays boasts the fastest average bat speed in the league this year. His swing is not only quick but also effective—over 75% of his swings exceed 75 mph.
He’ll take the field on Tuesday and, coincidentally, celebrates his 22nd birthday the day before the All-Star Game. He’s expressed his desire to join the Home Run Derby if the opportunity arises. “If I get picked, yes,” Kaminero stated recently. “I’m not claiming I’ll win, but I’ll definitely put on a show for the fans.”
And let’s be honest, fans enjoy a great show—having Kaminero in the Derby would certainly provide that.
James Wood, Washington Nationals
James Wood is having a strong second season in the majors. As a member of the Nationals, he’s hit 22 home runs this year, including impressive ones against the Dodgers.
The 22-year-old has launched 13 home runs with remarkable distances, and it sounds like he’s ready for an invite to the Derby.
“I mean, it would be cool if I got invited,” Wood shared with reporters this week. “Let’s see if that happens.” I think he definitely deserves an invitation.
Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
There are many reasons to want to see Ronald Acuña Jr. in the Home Run Derby this year. Despite missing the start of the season due to injury, he’s come back strong.
In just 28 games since his return, Acuña has racked up 40 hits, 16 RBIs, and nine home runs, along with an impressive batting average of .396.
Another reason to hope for his participation? It would give him a chance to entertain his fans in his hometown.
