Fri Jul 04 01:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Nationals outfielder James Wood, a 22-year-old rookie sensation known for his power, has been invited to participate in the 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby. Wood ranks high in the league in home runs and exit velocity. He joins Cal Raleigh and Ronald Acuña Jr. as confirmed participants. Wood is excited about the opportunity, seeing it as a fun experience. He will be pitched to by Nationals third-base coach Ricky Gutierrez. The Nationals organization is proud of Wood’s accomplishment and believes his power and ability to hit to all fields give him a good chance in the competition.
**News Article:**
**Nationals’ Rookie Phenom James Wood to Swing for the Fences in 2025 Home Run Derby**
**WASHINGTON** – Nationals outfielder James Wood, the towering 22-year-old rookie making waves with his prodigious power, has earned a coveted invitation to the 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby. The announcement came Thursday, generating excitement for both Wood and the Nationals organization.
Wood, in his first full Major League season, has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with, currently ranking seventh among all MLB players with 22 home runs. His raw power is undeniable, placing him in the upper echelon of the league in hard-hit rate, exit velocity, and barrel rate.
“It’s just an honor to be invited,” Wood stated, adding with characteristic humility, “Winning it would be cool, but I’m just there to have a good time.”
He will join fellow sluggers Cal Raleigh and Ronald Acuña Jr. in the competition, set to take place on July 14 at Truist Park in Atlanta. Nationals third-base coach and former MLB infielder Ricky Gutierrez will be on the mound, serving as Wood’s personal batting practice pitcher.
Nationals Manager Dave Martinez expressed his pride in Wood’s selection. “Great for James, great for our organization, our fans,” Martinez said. “He deserves to be in it. I’m excited for him. I hope he does really well.”
Wood’s power is not just measured in distance, but also in force. He ranks near the top of the league in the number of home runs hit over 110 mph. His hardest-hit homer was a scorching 116.3 mph shot that traveled 431 feet.
Martinez believes Wood’s ability to hit to all fields, particularly left-center, will serve him well in the Derby. The Nationals skipper also advised to stay calm.
Wood, acquired by the Nationals in the 2022 Juan Soto trade, will aim to join Bryce Harper (2018) and Juan Soto (2022) as the third Nationals player to claim the Home Run Derby crown.
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