When the Atlanta Braves announced on June 24 that Ronald Acuña Jr. would be suiting up for the 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby, fans erupted in joy. It marks his third time participating in this electrifying showcase of raw power and charisma. And this time? Acuña is itching to go all the way.

The Braves, perhaps surprisingly, have never had a Home Run Derby winner. Not since its founding in 1985. Legends like Freddie Freeman, Chipper Jones, Dale Murphy, Andruw Jones – they’ve all competed, but none claimed the crown. At 27, he’s neither youngest nor most seasoned, but he’s one of the rare few to mix elite power with electric speed. His 173 career home runs and blazing stolen base stats underscore a rare blend of speed and strength.

As a kid, Acuña has always been dreaming about winning at least one home run derby in the big league. While it is just one of the mere All-Star festivities, it is expected that he would be the perfect candidate to give Atlanta a shot at greatness. But it is still a few weeks before the action takes place, but Acuña already appreciates and is hyped for the action.

Acuña is the Perfect Contestant

The numbers don’t lie. In the 2025 season up to June 18, Acuña has hit 173 homers in his career and maintains a .421-foot average distance on longballs – placing him among the game’s top sluggers. He averages north of 108 mph exit velocity, making his Der­by profile particularly compelling. Four of his homers this season have sailed at least 440 feet – granting him potential bonus time in Derby format.

Simply put: when forums and analysts talk about players who can hit “no-doubters,” Acuña’s name is always near the top of the list. This isn’t just about brute strength – it’s mental toughness too. Every swing must have players trying to make the ball leave the yard.

For Acuña, however, pacing early in the rounds is not much of a big deal, but he has to innovate and make sure he can find ways to keep his swagger and win big in the competition. In an event designed to thrill and amaze, one thing’s certain: Acuña will make every swing count.

Firepower in the Mix

This year’s lineup is stacked. Defending champion Pete Alonso returns; Juan Soto, Kyle Schwarber, Albert Pujols – each brings unique flair. Competing in Los Angeles' Dodger Stadium on July 18, Acuña will be right where he wants to be: on the brightest stage. If this feels different from his 2019 and 2022 Derby experiences, that’s no accident.

Between rupturing an ACL in 2024 and roaring back with a home run on his first pitch back in May 2025, Acuña has evolved. That comeback likely fuels his fire now. With renewed confidence and validation following a rigorous rehab, this Derby feels like a celebration of everything he’s overcome.

As Braves fans begin planning watch parties for July 18, one thing stands above all: Ronald Acuña Jr. is bringing heart, hustle – and most importantly, history – to the Derby. He’s chasing not only the title, but a chance to write his name as the first Brave to bring home the trophy, and to finally answer that childhood reverie.

At this point, between winning MLB Games, Acuña is also keen to show that he’s able to understand and deliver big hits that would win him the Home Run Derby.