Home Run Derby Odds: Ronald Acuña Jr. is Back

MLBNEWS
July 4, 2025

Get Ready for the 2025 Home Run Derby: Cal Raleigh, Ronald Acuña Jr. & James Wood Set to Ignite Truist Park!

 

Get ready for an explosive night of home runs, speed, and pure adrenaline in Atlanta. The 2025 Home Run Derby already has its first confirmed stars, and fans — and bettors — are starting to check the Home Run Derby Odds to choose their favorite.

 

Key Information to Know

 

The 2025 Home Run Derby is set for Monday, July 14 at 8:00 p.m. ET, live from Truist Park in Atlanta — the home of the Braves. The stadium will host one of the most anticipated shows of the MLB summer.

The event takes place one day after the MLB Draft and immediately precedes the 2025 All-Star Game, scheduled for July 15. The MLB lines are already shifting, with names that promise nothing but excitement.

 

The First Confirmed Stars

 

So far, three powerful sluggers have confirmed their participation, each bringing a unique style and motivation:

 

Ronald Acuña Jr. – Braves

Atlanta Braves  Venezuelan sensation Ronald Acuña Jr. will take center stage as the hometown favorite. Despite starting the 2025 season two months late due to an ACL injury, Acuña has shown he’s back in complete form.

Winner of the 2023 MVP after achieving a historic 40-40 season (40 HR, 40 stolen bases), Acuña will be one of the main attractions in this year’s Derby. Even though he doesn’t lead the league in home runs this season, his explosive power and crowd support could take him far.

The Home Run Derby odds already have him as one of the favorites due to his experience, charisma, and home-field advantage.

 

Cal Raleigh – Mariners

Nicknamed “The Big Dumper,” the Seattle Mariners catcher is currently the home run leader in all of MLB with 33 homers. After two straight 30-HR seasons, Raleigh has taken his game to the next level in 2025.

In addition to his power at the plate, he’s also one of the league’s best defenders. Once considered underrated, the Home Run Derby odds now reflect his status as a favorite. If he keeps up this pace, he might even challenge the American League single-season home run record.

 

James Wood – Nationals

At just 22 years old and standing 6 feet 7 inches tall, the Washington Nationals outfielder is the breakout star of 2025. He was part of the blockbuster Juan Soto trade from San Diego, and this year he’s showing why he was so highly valued.

Wood already has over 20 home runs, and his power is so feared that on June 29, the Angels intentionally walked him four times — something that hadn’t happened since Barry Bonds in 2004.

With 12 home runs hit at over 110 mph, his MLB Odds are rising fast. Many bettors already see him as the tournament’s dark horse.

 

Who Won’t Be in the Derby?

 

Although there’s no shortage of talent, some superstars have declined the invitation:

  • Aaron Judge has declined the invitation, stating he won’t take part in the Derby again until the All-Star Game is hosted at Yankee Stadium.
  • Shohei Ohtani: Even though he leads in exit velocity, he’s focused on returning as a pitcher and sees the Derby as a physical risk.
  • Pete Crow-Armstrong: The Cubs’ new star says his power isn’t suited for the Derby format.
  • Elly De La Cruz and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: Both declined, concerned about post-Derby fatigue.
  • Defending champion Teoscar Hernández: Also opted out, citing exhaustion and injury recovery.

This opens the door for new talent and shifts in the MLB Odds, which are now focusing on a new generation of power hitters.

 

What’s the 2025 Home Run Derby Format?

 

Since 2024, MLB has introduced a new format:

  • First Round: All 8 participants hit up to 40 pitches in three minutes, plus three extra outs.
  • Semifinals and Final: The top four advance to a knockout stage, with two minutes and a maximum of 27 pitches in the final.

Although last year’s format was somewhat confusing, MLB has not yet confirmed whether it will remain unchanged for the 2025 season. What is certain is that the Home Run Derby odds will shift quickly depending on each player’s performance, making live betting even more thrilling.

 

Historic Uniforms

 

This year’s Home Run Derby jerseys will honor Henry Aaron and Babe Ruth, two legends tied to Braves history.

The National League will wear light blue and feature the number 44 (in honor of Aaron).

The American League squad will sport dark blue jerseys featuring the number 3, honoring Babe Ruth.

Both uniforms will display the “ATL 2025” logo and include red accents throughout.

The jersey numbers are a subtle tribute to the dates July 14 and 15 (7/14 and 7/15), symbolizing Ruth’s 714 career home runs and the iconic 715 hit by Hank Aaron, which surpassed him.

 

What Are the MLB Odds Right Now?

 

With three names confirmed, 2025 Home Run Derby odds are adjusting daily. Here’s a tentative look at how the Home Run Derby Odds might stack up:

 

PLAYER2025 HOME RUN DERBY ODDS
Cal Raleigh+300
Ronald Acuña Jr.+400
James Wood+500
Future Participant 1 +600
Future Participant 2+700

Note: These odds are not official and may change as the remaining five participants are announced.

 

What Can You Expect as a Bettor?

 

The Home Run Derby is more than just a show — it’s an excellent opportunity to bet smart and have fun. With a timed, elimination-based format and a limited number of swings, the favorites don’t always win.

Strategy and stamina play a considerable role. That’s why following the MLB Odds, understanding ballpark conditions (Truist Park favors right-handed hitters), and studying each player’s Derby history can make all the difference.

 

The MLB Most Happy Date of the Year is Set

 

Whether you’re a Braves fan cheering for Acuña, betting on James Wood to surprise the world, or backing Cal Raleigh on a historic run, one thing is sure: this is a can’t-miss event.

And for bettors, the MLB Odds offer a field full of opportunity. Don’t forget to stay tuned for the announcement of the remaining five participants — they could dramatically change the game.

Mark your calendar: July 14! Grab your snacks, your betting app, and get ready for a night of fireworks — the home runs are coming!

 

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