Pirates' Oneil Cruz Faces Injury Doubts Ahead Home Run Derby

Oneil Cruz, the towering 6-foot-7 Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder known for his prodigious power hitting and hardest-hit home runs, is set to compete in the 2025 Home Run Derby at Truist Park. Cruz is aiming to become the first Pirates player to win the event, which has seen several Pirates participants before but no winners. Despite his status as a betting favorite and excitement from teammates like Paul Skenes, Cruz's participation remains uncertain due to a hip flexor injury sustained during a recent game, with the Pirates' management evaluating his condition. The event will feature eight participants, including Cruz, who is praised for his exceptional batting practice and potential to dominate the derby. Cruz's name also carries a personal connection to baseball history, as he was named after former Yankees outfielder Paul O'Neill, reflecting his father's passion for the sport. The derby format includes multiple rounds with timed and pitch-limited attempts, and Cruz's presence promises to bring excitement to the competition as he challenges the best power hitters in baseball.