The 2025 Home Run Derby will see Atlanta Braves' Matt Olson replace teammate Ronald Acuña Jr., who will remain an All-Star outfielder despite withdrawal due to recent injuries. Olson, a top power hitter with 17 home runs this season, joins a roster that features several promising sluggers. Notably, Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the New York Yankees and Brent Rooker of the Athletics will also compete, while rising stars such as Junior Caminero and Oneil Cruz add excitement. Cal Raleigh, leading the league with 32 homers, will represent the Mariners, vying for the prestigious title.

With Acuña's strong return from ACL surgery and Olson's prowess, the Derby promises to showcase significant talent. The event, occurring on July 14 at Truist Park, will crown a new champion, following last year's winner, Teoscar Hernández. With a diverse field of participants, the competition is set to be electrifying, highlighting both established and emerging stars in the league.

The Seattle Mariners faced a tough defeat against the New York Yankees on Thursday night, losing 6-5 after leading 5-1 during the eighth inning. Mariners starter Bryan Woo displayed extraordinary pitching prowess for over seven innings, allowing only two hits and striking out five. However, the bullpen faltered, with Andrés Muñoz giving up a crucial run in the ninth, which set the stage for Aaron Judge's dramatic impact in extra innings.

Woo's success stemmed from a strategic shift in his pitch selection, notably using a mix that favored his sweepers and changeups rather than his usual fastball-heavy approach. This adaptation allowed him to keep the Yankees in check, particularly against power hitters like Judge, with a notable exception in how he pitched to him. The Mariners will need to regroup quickly as they seek to rebound from this heartbreaking loss.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. is gearing up for the Home Run Derby with a relaxed mindset, emphasizing enjoyment over pressure. The second baseman for the New York Yankees, who has already made a name for himself as an All-Star, is set to compete against notable power hitters like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Cal Raleigh. Despite dealing with injuries earlier in the season, Chisholm feels confident, asserting that his shoulder has never been an issue when swinging. His strategy involves a measured approach, aiming to hit home runs without overexerting himself.

Chisholm sees Acuña as a major competitor due to the home crowd advantage and acknowledges Oneil Cruz's impressive stats in hard contact metrics. Chisholm's participation is significant for the Yankees, marking him as the first to win the Home Run Derby since Aaron Judge in 2017, continuing the team's legacy of powerhouse hitters. He aims to keep his performance simple, hoping that a relaxed attitude will lead to success.

Riley Quick, an Alabama right-hander, has emerged as a top prospect in the 2025 MLB Draft after a stellar season. He finished with an 8-3 record, a 3.92 ERA, and 70 strikeouts over 62 innings, showcasing his recovery from Tommy John surgery.

Projections for Quick's draft position vary, with ESPN predicting a second-round selection by the Kansas City Royals, while other analysts foresee him being picked as high as No. 26 by the Philadelphia Phillies or No. 39 by the New York Yankees. His impressive size and high-velocity sinker make him a valuable addition to any team.

The New York Yankees made a bold decision by releasing DJ LeMahieu on Thursday, signaling a shift in their roster strategy. LeMahieu's recent physical struggles at third base led to Jazz Chisholm Jr. taking over, but the team faced challenges with both players in their respective positions. Now, with LeMahieu designated for assignment, the Yankees must navigate the trade market for a new third baseman.

Financial obligations complicate matters; with $22 million remaining on LeMahieu's contract, pursuing a high-profile player like Nolan Arenado may be less feasible. Instead, the Yankees may consider rental options like Eugenio Suárez, whose contract would fit more comfortably within their budget. Arenado's potential availability has been a topic of discussion all season, but the Yankees might need to prioritize immediate needs without sacrificing future financial flexibility.