Tue Jul 08 17:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the information provided:
**Nationals’ Rookie Sensation James Wood to Compete in 2025 Home Run Derby**
**WASHINGTON** – Nationals outfielder James Wood, the towering 6-foot-7 rookie sensation, has been selected to participate in the 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby. The invitation comes on the heels of a stellar first full season for the 22-year-old slugger, who currently ranks seventh in MLB (fifth in the National League) with 22 home runs.
Wood was informed of his selection the same day he went 5-for-5 and hit his 23rd home run in the Nationals’ 11-7 victory over the Detroit Tigers. The Derby will be held on July 14th at Truist Park in Atlanta as part of the All-Star Game festivities.
“It’s just an honor to be invited,” Wood said. “Winning it would be cool, but I’m just there to have a good time.”
Wood will join confirmed participants Cal Raleigh and Ronald Acuña Jr. in the competition. He’ll have Nationals third base coach Ricky Gutierrez, a former Major League infielder, pitching to him. Wood acknowledges he’s never taken two straight minutes to swing, but he is confident he will figure it out.
“Great for James, great for our organization, our fans,” said Nationals manager Dave Martinez. “He deserves to be on it. I’m excited for him. I hope he does really well.”
Wood’s power is undeniable. He ranks in the top percentile in hard-hit rate, average exit velocity, and barrel rate. Entering Thursday, Wood ranked second in the Majors with 12 homers hit harder than 110 mph, trailing only Shohei Ohtani.
He will look to become the third Nationals player to win the Home Run Derby, joining Bryce Harper (2018) and Juan Soto (2022).
First Piper 