Ronald Acuña Jr., the Atlanta Braves' star, faced another setback this week after being scratched from the lineup due to back tightness. Despite a promising start to the season with 11 home runs, Acuña had to withdraw from the Home Run Derby, making way for teammate Matt Olson, who is having an impressive year with 19 home runs. Olson, a Georgia native, is set to showcase his skills on a national stage during the All-Star festivities.

Olson's return to the Derby is a significant moment, especially considering his local roots. Previously, he had a strong showing in 2021, hitting 23 homers but exiting in the first round. As he prepares to compete again, Olson's average exit velocity of 93.8 mph positions him favorably among a skilled group of contestants. The Atlanta fanbase remains hopeful as they celebrate Acuña's All-Star selection while eager to see Olson in action.

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.

Julio Rodriguez, the Seattle Mariners center fielder, is facing a pivotal moment in his young career. Despite an impressive debut season in 2022 that earned him the American League Rookie of the Year title and an All-Star selection, Rodriguez's performance in 2024 has been below his usual standards. Currently batting .244 with a .687 OPS, he has expressed a desire to take a break from the All-Star Game to focus on his health and prepare for a strong second half of the season, as the Mariners are closely fighting for a playoff spot.

Rodriguez's decision to skip the All-Star Game comes as he aims to regain his form, having previously achieved accolades such as winning a Silver Slugger and finishing high in MVP voting. With 11 home runs and 15 stolen bases this season, he hopes that this time off will aid in a recovery that could be crucial for the Mariners' playoff aspirations.