Your Complete Guide to Watching the Home Run Derby: Stream, TV, and More

By Rebecca WilliamsLast Updated April 22, 2025

Understanding the Home Run Derby: What It Is and Why It Matters

The Home Run Derby is a marquee event held annually in conjunction with Major League Baseball’s All-Star festivities. It features some of the league’s most powerful hitters competing to see who can hit the most home runs in a bracket-style contest. For baseball fans, the Derby represents both a celebration of offensive prowess and a chance to see elite athletes showcase their skills in a fun, competitive setting. The 2025 Home Run Derby will be hosted at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia, adding another layer of excitement given the city’s passionate fan base [1] .

When and Where: Key Details for the 2025 Home Run Derby

The 2025 Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday, July 14, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The event will take place at Truist Park, the home of the Atlanta Braves. Knowing the date and time is crucial for planning, as the Derby is a live event and many viewers prefer to watch it as it happens for the full experience [1] [2] .

How to Watch on TV: ESPN and ESPN2 Coverage

For traditional television viewers, the Home Run Derby will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN2. Both channels offer full coverage of the event, including pre-Derby analysis, interviews, and post-event highlights. ESPN is widely available through most cable and satellite providers across the United States. If you already subscribe to a cable or satellite package, simply tune in to ESPN or ESPN2 at the scheduled start time. Check your local listings for the exact channel number in your area, as this can vary by provider [1] .

How to Stream the Home Run Derby Online: Multiple Options

For those who prefer streaming, there are several authorized ways to watch the Derby online:

ESPN.com and the ESPN App: If you have a cable or satellite subscription that includes ESPN, you can log in to ESPN.com or use the ESPN app to stream the event live. Authentication with your provider’s credentials is typically required.
MLB.com and MLB.tv: The official MLB website and MLB.tv offer live streaming of the Home Run Derby. Access may require a subscription or account registration. MLB.tv is a paid service, but some special events may be available for free or included with a subscription. You should visit the official MLB.com homepage or the MLB.tv section to confirm current access requirements for the Derby [2] .
Live TV Streaming Services: Services such as FuboTV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV often carry ESPN and ESPN2 in their channel lineups. These platforms allow you to stream the Home Run Derby live, even if you don’t have a traditional cable subscription. Be aware that most require a paid subscription, but many offer free trials for new users. To use these platforms, sign up on their official websites and ensure ESPN is included in your package [1] .

Always verify that the service you choose is legitimate and that it includes ESPN or ESPN2 in your area. If you are outside the U.S., check for regional broadcast partners or online options, as availability may differ based on location.

How to Watch Replays and Highlights After the Event

If you miss the live broadcast, replays and highlight packages are made available through several official sources:

MLB.com: The official MLB.com video archive provides full event replays and highlight reels shortly after the Derby concludes. Access may require a free MLB.com account or an MLB.tv subscription, depending on the content.
YouTube: Official highlights, including key moments and recaps, are usually uploaded to MLB’s and Fox Sports’ YouTube channels. For example, you can watch the full Home Run swing-off from the 2025 MLB All-Star Game through verified Fox Sports content [4] .
ESPN App and Website: ESPN typically provides condensed highlights, interviews, and expert breakdowns after the event on their digital platforms. Access generally requires a TV provider login.

Who Is Participating in the 2025 Home Run Derby?

The 2025 field features some of the biggest names in baseball, including Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers), Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Toronto Blue Jays), Elly De La Cruz (Cincinnati Reds), and Aaron Judge (New York Yankees). The participants are selected based on their season performance and home run totals, ensuring a competitive and entertaining lineup [2] .

Understanding the Format and Rules

This year’s Home Run Derby introduces several format changes. The first round will feature all eight hitters, with the top four advancing to the semifinals, rather than immediate knockout rounds. Players are seeded based on their home run totals in the first round. The longest home run is used as a tiebreaker. Additionally, there is a new pitch limit for each round, meaning that once a maximum number of pitches is reached or the allotted time runs out, the round ends. These changes are designed to speed up the competition and keep fans engaged throughout [2] .

Tips for Maximizing Your Home Run Derby Viewing Experience

To get the most out of your Home Run Derby experience, consider the following:

Set a Reminder: The Derby is a live event, so set alarms or calendar reminders for the scheduled start time (8:00 p.m. ET).
Prepare Your Streaming Accounts: If you plan to stream, ensure your account credentials are up-to-date and that you have access to ESPN, MLB.tv, or your chosen streaming service.
Check Your Internet Connection: For uninterrupted streaming, verify that your internet connection is stable and fast enough to handle live video.
Engage with Social Media: Follow MLB and ESPN on platforms like Twitter and Instagram for live updates, behind-the-scenes content, and fan interactions during the event.
Watch with Friends: Consider organizing a viewing party in person or virtually to enhance the fun and excitement of the Derby.

Alternative Viewing and Accessibility

For those who may not have access to cable or streaming services, consider these approaches:

Sports Bars and Restaurants: Many sports bars and restaurants broadcast major MLB events, including the Home Run Derby. Contact local venues in advance to confirm whether they will be showing the event.
Public Watch Parties: In some cities, MLB teams or local organizations may host public viewing events. Check your local team’s official website or community boards for announcements.
Radio Broadcasts: While not as visually immersive, some radio stations and platforms provide live audio coverage of the Derby. Visit MLB.com or your local sports radio station’s website for options.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Users may encounter regional blackouts, streaming restrictions, or login issues. If you have trouble accessing the event:

Contact your TV or streaming provider’s customer support for assistance with login or access problems.
If you’re traveling internationally, check for MLB broadcast partners in your location, as U.S.-based streams may be geo-restricted.
For accessibility accommodations such as closed captioning or alternate audio, consult the support sections of ESPN or MLB.tv for guidance.

Summary: Step-by-Step Guidance to Watch the Home Run Derby

Mark your calendar for July 14, 8:00 p.m. ET.
Decide whether to watch via cable/satellite (ESPN/ESPN2), streaming (ESPN.com, MLB.tv), or a live TV service (FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV).
If streaming, create or verify your account and ensure ESPN is included in your plan.
Test your device and internet connection before the event starts.
For replays or highlights, visit MLB.com’s video section or official YouTube channels after the event concludes.