It would have been odd to not see rising Washington Nationals superstar James Wood compete in the Home Run Derby this year. Not only has he hit more long balls than just about anyone else in Major League Baseball during the first half of the season,

Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood delivered a flawless performance at the plate Thursday, going five-for-five and further cementing his status as one of baseball’s brightest young stars.

Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood accepted an invitation to the Home Run Derby on Thursday afternoon. He then celebrated with a five-hit performance in an 11-7 win against the Detroit Tigers that established a new piece of franchise history.