HOUSTON — Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez said Sunday that he is not interested in participating in the Home Run Derby during All-Star week despite leading American League hitters in home run production.
Alvarez made the comment after the Astros’ 2-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians, in which he hit his 25th home run of the season.
“No,” Alvarez said when asked if he would consider competing in the Home Run Derby this year. He added, “Not this year.”
Alvarez has never participated in the Home Run Derby. In 2024, after being named the American League’s starting designated hitter for the All-Star Game, he said he might consider entering the event at some point in his career.
This season, Alvarez leads qualified major-league hitters in OPS (1.054) and slugging percentage (.630). He also ranks second in the American League in batting average (.320) and on-base percentage (.424).
He trails only Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber in home runs across Major League Baseball.
Alvarez opened the scoring Sunday with a first-inning home run off Cleveland right-hander Slade Cecconi, breaking a seven-game homerless stretch.
“I feel very good right now,” Alvarez said through an interpreter. “I don’t think it’s a secret right now that they’re pitching me with a lot of caution. So I have to make adjustments to not chase the pitches that they want me to chase.”
Alvarez reached base in three of four plate appearances, drawing two walks, including one intentional walk. He also saw a 25-game on-base streak end Saturday.
He has received multiple accolades this season, including American League Player of the Week twice and Player of the Month for March and April.
Alvarez played in all but one of Houston’s first 79 games this season after appearing in only 48 games last year due to injuries, including a fractured right hand.
He started at designated hitter in most games and made limited appearances in left field, a position the Astros have used sparingly to manage his workload.
Manager Joe Espada said before Sunday’s game that he remains comfortable using Alvarez in left field but continues to monitor his health closely as the Astros seek consistency in their lineup.