Twins Slugger Set to Compete at Truist Park
Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton has been confirmed as the fourth participant in this year’s MLB Home Run Derby. The event will take place on Monday night, just ahead of the All-Star Game, at Truist Park in Atlanta.
Buxton, a Georgia native from Baxley, becomes the eighth player in Twins history to compete in the Derby. His appearance follows in the footsteps of Justin Morneau, who won the competition back in 2008. At 31 years old and with 20 home runs this season, Buxton brings both power and sentimental value to the event, especially since it will take place in his home state.
Personal Motivation and Family Support
During a media session on Sunday, Buxton shared how his 11-year-old son Brix inspired him to accept the Derby invitation. The younger Buxton regularly plays the Home Run Derby mode on the “MLB: The Show” video game and had a simple request for his father: bring a towel and a Gatorade.
Buxton described the moment with pride, highlighting how these small gestures from his son add emotional depth to his participation. “It’s the small things that add up to the big ones,” he said.
Confirmed Participants So Far
Buxton joins a growing list of confirmed participants for the eight-man competition:
| Player | Team | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Byron Buxton | Minnesota Twins | Center Fielder |
| James Wood | Washington Nationals | Outfielder |
| Ronald Acuña Jr. | Atlanta Braves | Outfielder |
| Cal Raleigh | Seattle Mariners | Catcher |
Top Stars Sit Out This Year’s Derby
While the participant list is still being finalized, several high-profile sluggers have opted out. Pete Alonso of the New York Mets, a two-time Derby champion, will not take part despite hitting 20 home runs this season. Alonso was named an NL reserve for the All-Star Game but cited a lack of motivation for skipping the event.
“I just figured I’d take a break, use the break as recovery and get back at it,” Alonso told reporters.
Kyle Schwarber of the Phillies and Bobby Witt Jr. of the Royals have also confirmed they won’t participate. However, Schwarber, who currently has 27 home runs and made his third All-Star team, hinted he might consider joining next year when the event heads to Philadelphia.
