Home Run Derby Participants Confirmed; Alonso and Schwarber Decline Invitations

The participant list for the Home Run Derby is beginning to take shape, with names like Cal Raleigh, James Wood, and Ronald Acuna Jr. already confirmed. However, two notable sluggers, Pete Alonso of the New York Mets and Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies, have opted out of this year’s event in Atlanta.

Pete Alonso’s Decision

Pete Alonso, a two-time champion, has participated in every Home Run Derby held over the past five years. Announcing his decision on Sunday, Alonso explained his reasoning for declining this year’s invitation.

Alonso’s Explanation
  • “I just decided not to do it this year,” Alonso stated.
  • “I have never really fully enjoyed the three off-days, so I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half.”
  • He added, “I’m in a groove with certain things. I definitely will do it again. It doesn’t mean no forever.”

This marks the fifth time Alonso has been selected for the All-Star Game. He currently holds a .287 batting average with 20 home runs and 73 RBIs across 91 games.

Kyle Schwarber’s Stance

Similarly, Philadelphia Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber has also chosen to sit out the event. He previously participated in 2018 and 2022.

Schwarber Considers Future Participation

Schwarber mentioned that while he won’t participate this year, he would seriously consider joining the competition next year when Philadelphia hosts the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby.

  • “I’m not going to do the Home Run Derby,” Schwarber said regarding the 2025 event.
  • “Maybe see what happens next year.”

Schwarber earned his third All-Star team selection on Sunday. Across 90 games, he is batting .251 with 27 home runs and 63 RBIs.

Other Potential Absences

Speculation suggests that other prominent players, including Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees and Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, may also forgo the event.