Jul 15, 2025, 1:56 AM
Jul 14, 2025, 10:23 PM

Oneil Cruz falls short in the semifinals of the Home Run Derby

Highlights
  • Oneil Cruz hit 21 home runs in the first round of the Home Run Derby, including a 513-foot homer.
  • He faced Cal Raleigh in the semifinals, where Raleigh hit six more homers to advance to the finals.
  • Cruz's performance marks a significant moment for the Pirates and cements his reputation as a powerful hitter.
Story

On July 14, 2025, at the All-Star Home Run Derby held at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia, Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz showcased his powerful hitting abilities. He hit 21 home runs in the first round, including a remarkable 513-foot shot, which secured him a spot in the semifinals. Cruz faced off against Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, a formidable competitor known for his own home run prowess. Despite a strong performance, Cruz was eliminated after Raleigh managed to hit 19 home runs, six more than Cruz, advancing to the championship round of the event. In the other semifinal, Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero triumphed over Minnesota's Byron Buxton to reach the finals as well. Ultimately, Raleigh emerged victorious in the final round against Caminero, claiming the Home Run Derby title. The competition highlighted Cruz's remarkable ability as a slugger, reaffirming his reputation established during his MLB career, which began in 2022. With one of the hardest-hit home runs recorded since Statcast started tracking in 2015, Cruz is becoming a prominent figure in the league. His performance at the Home Run Derby also marked a significant moment for the Pirates, as he became the first player from the franchise to advance past the first round of this event since Josh Bell participated in 2019. Previously, Cruz hit 11 of the 19 hardest-hit balls tracked since his debut season, underlining his status as a feared hitter among his peers. Cruz's preparation included assistance from Stephen Morales, a Pirates assistant coach, who pitched during the event. This event not only provided entertainment but also engaged fans, many of whom took to social media to discuss Cruz's impressive achievement of hitting four balls over 480 feet, showcasing his power. Teammates like Andrew McCutchen expressed pride in Cruz's performances by celebrating his long home run on social media. Fans enjoy the excitement and spectacle of the Home Run Derby, where players display their extraordinary abilities, and this year was no exception with Cruz performing admirably among an elite group of hitters. The participation of players like Cruz and his fellow competitors served to elevate the competition's prestige, emphasizing the significance of the Derby as a highlight of the MLB's All-Star festivities.

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