The Chicago Cubs are actively exploring trades to bolster their roster ahead of the deadline, focusing particularly on acquiring an impactful starting pitcher. Sandy Alcantara and Mitch Keller are at the top of their wishlist for rotation improvements as the Cubs aim for a playoff push with a strong standing in the NL Central. Additionally, the team is eyeing offensive upgrades, especially at third base, where Matt Shaw has shown defensive prowess but lacks offensive consistency. The Cubs are considering adding veteran Justin Turner for his postseason experience, although his performance has been inconsistent. They are also monitoring Eugenio Suarez from the Arizona Diamondbacks, who could provide a significant offensive boost if available.

The 2025 Home Run Derby is shaping up to be an exciting event, scheduled for July 14 at Truist Park near Atlanta. The first participant confirmed is Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr., guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Alongside him, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, affectionately known as 'Big Dumper,' is hoping to make history as the first catcher and undisputed switch-hitter to claim the derby title.

While excitement builds, notable absentees include the last two champions, Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays, both of whom have opted out of this year's competition. Additionally, Shohei Ohtani has withdrawn, citing the challenging current rules as a deterrent. Updates to the participant list will be closely monitored as the date approaches.

The excitement for the 2025 Home Run Derby is ramping up, as notable players are starting to accept or decline invitations. Among those who have accepted are Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh and Atlanta Braves' Ronald Acuña Jr., while Cincinnati Reds' Elly De La Cruz and Los Angeles Dodgers' Teoscar Hernández have opted out. With Shohei Ohtani's impressive 29 home runs this season, he stands as a potential participant but has indicated he likely won't compete due to concerns regarding the event's new rules, which limit the number of pitches allowed per round.

Ohtani, a two-way player for the Dodgers, has previously participated in the derby but cited his ongoing recovery from elbow surgery and the limitations of the derby's format as reasons for his hesitation. He confirmed he will still take part in All-Star festivities as a starting lineup player, having secured the most fan votes in the National League.

Cal Raleigh, the Seattle Mariners' catcher and current MLB home run leader, is set to participate in the 2025 Home Run Derby, highlighting a remarkable season where he has already hit 32 home runs. Excited to represent the Mariners at Truist Park in Atlanta, Raleigh aims to make history as the first catcher to exceed 48 home runs in a single season, a record currently held by Salvador Perez. Oddsmakers place him behind Aaron Judge in the competition for the home run crown.

Ronald Acuña Jr., the Braves' star outfielder and a two-time Derby participant, is also confirmed for the event. After recovering from a significant injury, Acuña has returned to form, showcasing impressive stats with a .385 batting average and nine home runs this season. As Acuña attempts to break his previous Derby records, he remains a significant player to watch.

Cal Raleigh, the Seattle Mariners' standout catcher, is making waves in the MLB this season with a league-leading 32 home runs and 69 RBIs. His impressive .275 batting average and a slugging percentage of .651 highlight his power at the plate. Raleigh's announcement to participate in this year's Home Run Derby not only engages his fan base but also positions him as a contender for the AL MVP, a title not held by a catcher since Joe Mauer in 2009.

Raleigh's potential to hit 50 home runs this season is a unique milestone for a catcher, as he already boasts his third consecutive season with over 30 home runs. Additionally, the Florida State product has been a reliable backstop since being awarded the Gold Glove in 2024, contributing significantly to the Mariners' success this season.