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Star Sluggers Decline 2025 Home Run Derby Invitations

Sluggers say skipping the event preserves their midseason rhythm for stronger second-half performance.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 04: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets in action against the New York Yankees at Citi Field on July 04, 2025 in New York City. The Mets defeated the Yankees 6-5.
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Overview

  • Two-time champion Pete Alonso ended his five-year Derby streak by declining the July 14 invitation at Truist Park.
  • Alonso, who has 20 home runs and 73 RBIs this season, was still named an NL All-Star reserve for the All-Star Game in Atlanta.
  • Philadelphia’s Kyle Schwarber, third in the National League with 27 home runs, also opted out of this year’s Derby.
  • Other marquee hitters, including Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani and reigning champion Teoscar Hernandez, have indicated they won’t participate.
  • Players cite the three off-days’ disruption to their regular-season rhythm and express willingness to return when the Derby visits parks they favor, such as Citi Field or Fenway Park.