MLB.com's Daniel Kramer shared a video on X of Raleigh when he was 8 years old, predicting that he'd be a Home Run Derby champ. Raleigh, with absurd natural power as a big, strong dude, will be one of the favorites in Atlanta.

Cruz, 26, will join Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero, Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton, Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh and Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. as the latest participants in the annual slugging contest.

The 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby will showcase some of the biggest stars from Major League Baseball as they swing for the fences on July 14. The lineup includes Atlanta Braves ' Ronald Acuña Jr., making his third appearance in the competition, and the MLB home run leader, Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners.

Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has dreamed about playing in the Home Run Derby since he was a kid, and he has the video to prove it

Raleigh's dad Todd, who will be throwing to him at the Derby, shared a video to MLB's Daniel Kramer of the Seattle Mariners catcher at 8 years old sharing his goal of winning the Home Run Derby. Watch the cute video below where the young Raleigh declares that he's "the Home Run Derby champ."

The Mariners committed to Raleigh after back-to-back 30-home-run seasons and commended his defensive work behind one of MLB’s top pitching staffs, where his framing metrics ranked among the game’s best. In 2025, Raleigh has emerged as a superstar, making the extension look like a bargain.

Cal Raleigh will participate in the Home Run Derby as part of his first All-Star Game experience in Atlanta. “It’s a cool opportunity, and I’m going to enjoy it,” he said.

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who leads the majors in homers with 32, says he will participate in next month’s Home Run Derby.

When Cal Raleigh says he has childhood memories dreaming of growing up and competing in the Home Run Derby, he really means it. 📽️ ⚾️Video evidence circa 20 years ago, when Cal was only 8 ...

Who is in the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby? Who could still earn an invite to the event during the 2025 MLB All-Star Game festivities? What to know now.