ATLANTA – As a kid, Ronald Acuña wouldn’t miss a Home Run Derby.
So to be able to win one?
“It would mean a lot,” Acuña said through interpreter Franco García on Tuesday. “I’ve always liked to compete in home run derbies. As a little kid, I always dreamed about winning one in the big leagues.”
Acuña is excited to participate in this year’s Home Run Derby, the second of his career. Braves batting practice coach Tomas Perez will pitch to Acuña at the July 18 event at Dodger Stadium.
The field – the known participants thus far – is good. Mets slugger Pete Alonso, who has won the Home Run Derby the last two years, will defend his title. Washington’s Juan Soto and Philadelphia’s Kyle Schwarber will participate. So will Albert Pujols, a Cardinals legend.