The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby will take place on Monday, July 14, at 8 p.m. ET. This event will showcase a lineup of talented All-Stars, where Atlanta’s Matt Olson is expected to be a fan favorite, but the betting community is looking at Seattle’s Cal Raleigh as the strong favorite.
In what promises to be a thrilling contest, each competitor will have 40 pitches in the first round, with four advancing to the semifinals based on their performance. The final showdown will involve 27 pitches. Raleigh, with odds of +280, leads the betting favorites, followed closely by Oneil Cruz at +300 and James Wood at +450. Olson, stepping in for Ronald Acuna Jr., carries odds of +750.
As a unique factor, Raleigh’s versatility as a switch hitter is notable. However, SportsLine expert Matt Severance advises caution, emphasizing past instances where players who switch-hit during this event faced challenges. “That seems like a complex strategy,” he commented.
Given that Raleigh has only played two games at Truist Park, unfamiliarity with the environment could play a role against him, especially considering that no catcher has ever won the Home Run Derby. Thus, with the event’s high stakes, endurance and familiarity with the field might be crucial for success.
For more analysis and expert picks, including insights from Matt Severance, check out SportsLine.
Current Betting Odds for Participants:
- Cal Raleigh: +280
- Oneil Cruz: +300
- James Wood: +450
- Matt Olson: +750
- Byron Buxton: +900
- Junior Caminero: +1000
- Brent Rooker: +1000
- Jazz Chisholm: +1400
