Livvy Dunne, Paul Skenes, and Oneil Cruz Steal the Spotlight in Atlanta

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby wasn’t just about the long balls — it was a collision of baseball brilliance, star power, and viral moments. While Oneil Cruz captivated fans with jaw-dropping home runs, it was Olivia “Livvy” Dunne’s stunned reaction that set social media ablaze.

The former LSU gymnastics star and online phenomenon was front and center during the Derby, cheering from the stands alongside her boyfriend, Pirates ace Paul Skenes. As Cruz launched moonshots deep into the Georgia sky, Dunne captured one of the most memorable clips of the night on her Instagram story, exclaiming “holy cr@p” and “oh my god” as the Pittsburgh outfielder crushed his way into the semifinals.

Cruz’s performance was nothing short of electric. He smashed 21 homers in the first round, including a colossal 513-foot bomb that tied Aaron Judge for the longest non-Coors Field home run in Derby history since Statcast began tracking in 2016. His average distance of 447 feet and a top exit velocity of 118 mph showed why he’s one of the most feared young sluggers in the game.

Dunne and Skenes were visibly thrilled during Cruz’s introduction, shown on ESPN clapping and smiling as their teammate took center stage. The baseball power couple had flown into Atlanta the night before on a private jet — and yes, Cruz was reportedly aboard the same flight, setting the stage for what would become one of the most talked-about nights of the summer.

But it wasn’t just Dunne reacting to Cruz’s raw power. Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr., no stranger to monster homers himself, was caught by ESPN cameras with his hands on his head, mouth agape, in disbelief at the blast. It was one of many moments that underscored how Cruz’s Derby run stunned not only fans but fellow players.

Despite eventually falling in the semifinals, Cruz left a mark on the night — not just with his record-tying homer but with the hype and admiration surrounding him. While he didn’t win the trophy, he may have won the crowd.

And as for Dunne and Skenes, their presence added another layer of stardom to the festivities. With Skenes set to start the All-Star Game for the second consecutive year, and Dunne continuing to dominate the digital world, the duo has firmly established themselves as baseball’s most electric couple.

In a Home Run Derby filled with big swings and bigger reactions, it was that perfect mix of athletic greatness and viral charm that made Monday night in Atlanta unforgettable.

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