Atlanta’s Truist Park will still see a Braves slugger swing for glory, with Ronald Acuña Jr. sitting out Monday’s Home Run Derby. The veteran first baseman Matt Olson takes his spot in the eight-man field.
Derby Shakeup in Hometown Arena
Originally pencilled in as the hometown draw, Acuña withdrew due to lingering back tightness. Though he’ll still patrol centre field as a National League starter on Tuesday.
Stepping into the “Derby box,” 31-year-old Matt Olson inherits the chance to electrify his home crowd.
Olson’s Power Credentials
Olson isn’t new to Derby drama. He debuted in the 2021 contest as an athlete but fell in the opening round. Since then, he’s blasted 17 homers this season and amassed 173 big flies since 2021, including an MLB-leading 54 in 2023
His career track record makes him a serious contender to become the first Brave ever to win the Derby.
All-Star Weekend Context
Although Acuña bows out of the Derby, his All-Star status remains intact—he’ll start in Atlanta’s outfield, playing on home turf for the National League. Olson, meanwhile, was named an All-Star reserve infielder, and this substitution ensures Braves representation in both marquee events.
The Full Derby Lineup
Joining Olson are seven sluggers poised for slugfest:
- Brent Rooker (Athletics)
- Byron Buxton (Twins)
- Junior Caminero (Rays)
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Yankees)
- Oneil Cruz (Pirates)
- Cal Raleigh (Mariners)
- James Wood (Nationals)
As the lights come up Monday night, all eyes will be on Olson’s powerful swing. Can he turn a last-minute invite into Derby history? Either way, Atlanta fans are set for a showcase of the raw power of this sport.
