Overview
- Álvarez told reporters Sunday that he will not participate in next month’s Home Run Derby, answering 'No' and 'Not this year' when asked after Houston’s win over Cleveland.
- He enters the break as the American League leader with 25 home runs and has posted an elite slash line and OPS this season.
- Álvarez missed past All‑Star events because of injuries, including a 2022 hand fracture and a 2023 oblique issue, which contextualizes his decision to pass on a midseason showcase.
- He remains on track to be an All‑Star after leading AL position‑player voting in the first round, and he said pitchers are now pitching to him with extra caution so he must adjust his approach.
- The choice affects Houston’s season plans because the Astros sit 37-42 and have limited Álvarez’s defensive work to protect him, so skipping the Derby reduces his midseason workload and could help keep his bat in the lineup.