Pirates' Oneil Cruz Joins 2025 MLB HR Derby, Bracket Includes Acuna, Raleigh, More

The 2025 Home Run Derby added even more power to an already star-studded lineup.

Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz announced his entry into the Derby on Tuesday, joining Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr., Seattle Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh, Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton and Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood.

Cruz has appeared in 80 games for the 38-54 Pirates and is hitting .203 with 15 home runs and 35 RBI. Despite his lackluster contact rate, he's known for having a massively powerful bat.

According to Alex Stumpf of MLB.com, Cruz leads the majors with a 96.1 mph average exit velocity. His 122.9 mph blast in a May 25 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers is the hardest-hit ball in MLB's Statcast era, dating back to 2015. He's responsible for six of the 10 balls that hit at least 118 mph this season, as well as 12 of the 24 hardest-hit balls in the sport since his debut in 2022.

In addition to his power at the plate, Cruz has shown some incredible power in the outfield with some impressive throws to home plate.

Cruz is now the first Pirates player to participate in the Derby since Josh Bell in 2019, and the sixth in franchise history to join the field. None of Pittsburgh's previous entries advanced past the first round, so the 26-year-old will be looking to reach new heights for the franchise.

After Cruz's addition to the Derby field, there are three more spots available. The 2025 Home Run Derby will take place on Monday at Truist Park in Atlanta.