Bryce Harper will swing for the fences in the Home Run Derby on July 8, 2026, sharing the eight‑man lineup with fellow Phillie Kyle Schwarber at Citizens Bank Park. The event promises a hometown showcase as both sluggers try to out‑hit the field’s best.
Who is competing?
The Derby features a mix of power hitters: Willson Contreras of Boston, Jac Caglianone from Kansas City, Junior Caminero of Tampa Bay, Jordan Walker of St. Louis, and Ben Rice of the New York Yankees. One slot remains unfilled. Schwarber, 33, enters the contest with 32 homers this season, leading the majors, while Harper adds his own veteran presence.
What does the matchup mean for Harper?
Harper’s last Derby appearance ended in a loss to himself in 2018, but he’s still a fan favorite in Philadelphia. Pairing with Schwarber gives the Phillies two marquee names, boosting ticket sales and TV ratings. The home‑field advantage could translate into extra crowd energy, something Harper has thrived on throughout his career.
How have the participants performed recently?
Schwarber’s 32 home runs rank atop the league, and his 219 long balls since 2022 sit just behind Aaron Judge’s 227. Harper, while not leading the league, remains a consistent power threat, regularly posting double‑digit home run totals. Their combined firepower makes the Phillies the most represented team in the Derby field.
What’s next after the Derby?
The competition kicks off at 7:00 p.m. ET, with each batter allotted a timed round to rack up as many dingers as possible. Winners advance to the final round, where the champion is crowned. Fans will watch to see if Harper can finally claim the title that slipped away in his 2018 showdown.
The Derby will be streamed live on MLB Network and available on the MLB app, giving a national audience a chance to witness Philadelphia’s own Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber battle for home‑run glory.