The Washington Nationals have seen James Wood turn into a star after he came to the Nationals in the deal that sent Juan Soto to the San Diego Padres. Now he is shaping up to be a franchise player.
He announced on Instagram that he will participate in the Home Run Derby this year.
Wood joins Ronald Acuña Jr. and Cal Raleigh as players who have committed to the event. Acuña and Raleigh are both starters in the All-Star game as well. Wood had a good rookie season last year, but this season he has really taken a leap.
He hit nine home runs in 79 games last year. He slashed .264/.354/.427. This season he has hit 22 home runs in 86 games and has an OPS of .934. He will now bring his bat to Truist Park in hopes of winning his first home run derby.
Wood’s breakout season could put him on Mark DeRosa’s radar as the United States starts to put together its squad for the World Baseball Classic. Bobby Witt Jr. and Aaron Judge have already been announced as participants, and Wood is making himself a candidate to represent the United States next year.
The United States rostered five outfielders in 2023. One of those outfielders, Mookie Betts, has moved to the infield now, and another, Kyle Schwarber, is better suited as a designated hitter at this point in his career.
The United States will still have options like Mike Trout, Kyle Tucker and young phenom Pete Crow-Armstrong. However, Wood has a strong argument to be rostered.
Photo: Washington Nationals’ James Wood hits a single during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
