Home Run Derby 2025: Pirates slugger Oneil Cruz joins suddenly stacked group of power hitters at event

No Pete Alonso, no problem. The 2025 Home Run Derby got a massive power boost Tuesday, when Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz was announced for the event.

Cruz will join a suddenly stacked group of power hitters at the event — which include Cal Raleigh, James Wood, Byron Buxton and Ronald Acuña Jr.

While Raleigh leads the league in home runs, and Acuña has Derby experience, Cruz might have the best skill set to excel at the event. Cruz, 26, is a Statcast darling, and ranks in the 100th percentile in bat speed, average exit velocity, barrel rate and hard-hit percentage. Simply put, his swing and approach are built for success at the Home Run Derby.

Despite his immense power, Cruz hasn't reached his full potential as a hitter yet. He's slashing just .203/.315/.402 over 343 plate appearances.

This story will be updated.