One of the best sluggers to come out of the Rochester Red Wings’ affiliation with the Washington Nationals will be taking part in this year’s All-Star Home Run Derby. Outfielder James Wood, who smacked 10 home runs in 52 games for the Red Wings in 2024 and has recorded 22 home runs in the big leagues this season, was announced as a hitter in this year’s contest on Thursday.
The 6’7” left-handed hitter, who was called up to the Nationals just over one calendar year ago, will face seven other hitters in the Derby on July 14 at Truist Park in Atlanta. While the full field has yet to be announced, it has been confirmed that MLB home run leader and Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh and Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr. will also take part.
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Red Wings alumni have a long history of participation in the Home Run Derby, which dates back to 1985, with two former Red Wings (Cal Ripken Jr. and Justin Morneau) winning the competition. Another, Ruben Sierra, tied for the title in 1989 and later played for the Red Wings briefly in the twilight of his career. Other former Red Wings who’ve taken part in the Home Run Derby include Eddie Murray, Brady Anderson, Joe Mauer, Michael Cuddyer, Brian Dozier, and Miguel Sano.
The Home Run Derby can be seen on July 14 at 8 p.m. on ESPN. This season’s Rochester Red Wings are currently playing a home-and-home series with the Buffalo Bisons, and return home for their side of the six-game set on Friday for July 4.
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