The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby was supposed to be Ronald Acuña Jr.’s homecoming celebration — a fan-fueled fireworks show at Truist Park led by the Atlanta Braves’ favorite slugger. But now, the torch has been passed.
Braves first baseman Matt Olson will officially replace Acuña in Monday night’s Derby. MLB’s announcement came Friday evening, shifting the focus from electric flair to raw power — and giving Braves fans a new hometown hopeful to rally behind.
Acuña Sidelined — But Not Gone
Acuña was slated to make his third Derby appearance and first on home turf. However, lower back tightness during batting practice Tuesday caused the team to pull him from the lineup that night. He returned to play on Wednesday and has since stayed active, but the Braves are playing it safe with their superstar.
He’ll still start Tuesday’s All-Star Game for the National League, according to The Athletic’s Steve Berman — just not take part in the Derby fireworks.
Still, it’s a letdown for Braves fans, who were eager to watch “La Bestia” launch balls into the Atlanta sky in front of a home crowd.
Enter Olson: Big Bat, Bigger Opportunity
Olson might not bring the flash that Acuña does, but don’t let that fool you — the man can mash.
The 2023 NL home run king, Olson, blasted a career-high 54 bombs two years ago, leading the league in both homers and slugging (.604). Now in the midst of another All-Star season (.267/.368/.481, 17 HRs through 92 games), he’ll be making his second Derby appearance — the first coming in 2021 when he was still with Oakland.
He’s not just filling in. He’s coming to win. And if he does? He’ll become the first Braves player ever to win a Home Run Derby — and just the fourth to do it in his home stadium, joining Bryce Harper (2018), Todd Frazier (2015), and Ryne Sandberg (1990).
The Home Run Derby Field Is Set
Joining Olson on Monday night:
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. – New York Yankees
- Cal Raleigh – Seattle Mariners
- James Wood – Washington Nationals
- Oneil Cruz – Pittsburgh Pirates
- Junior Caminero – Tampa Bay Rays
- Byron Buxton – Minnesota Twins
- Brent Rooker – Oakland Athletics
It’s a stacked, power-packed field filled with rising stars and breakout bats — and Olson fits right in. His quiet demeanor and towering swing may not grab headlines the way Acuña’s highlight reel does, but don’t be surprised if he puts on a clinic under the lights at Truist.
From Letdown to Legacy?
Sure, Acuña’s absence stings — no way around it. But Olson’s presence isn’t a consolation prize. It’s a real shot at history for both him and the Braves.
And on a night built for sluggers, Matt Olson has a chance to remind everyone why his bat led the National League just two seasons ago.
The crowd may have lost “La Bestia.” But it gained a new hammer to believe in.
