For the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, there have been six confirmed participants. Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper announced earlier that he’d participate.
After their 1-0 win to clinch a series win over the Cincinnati Reds, interim manager Don Mattingly spoke about Harper’s participation in the derby.
“I’m glad he’s doing it, especially in Philly,” said Mattingly on NBC Sports Philadelphia’s postgame coverage.
Mattingly also had a slip of the tongue, hinting that both Harper and Kyle Schwarber will be in it. The media corrected the Phillies manager that Schwarber had not announced whether or not he’ll participate.
“I thought Kyle was going to do it, but maybe he’s waiting to make sure everything’s good.”
It may be a case of the Phillies manager jumping the gun, but now all eyes are on Schwarber over the next 72 hours.
Kyle Schwarber’s Home Run Derby Participation
Schwarber had indicated that he’d participate in the Home Run Derby, but on the condition that his back feels better.
He was scratched out of the lineup for a game during their series against the Washington Nationals on June 23. He had a pinch-hit appearance in the following game. Since that series, Schwarber has not had any additional injuries take him out of the lineup.
With only two participants unaccounted for, it may be more a question of when Schwarber will announce his decision. The Phillies’ designated hitter leads all MLB hitters with 32 home runs on the season.
Since the All-Star Game is being hosted in Philadelphia, as a celebration of America’s 250th birthday, it makes sense for both Schwarber and Harper to participate.
Harper has already experienced the thrills of winning the derby in his home ballpark, doing so with the Nationals in 2018. The extra kicker is that he defeated his future Phillies teammate in the final round.
The two may have a chance to compete with each other eight years later.
Alleged Kyle Schwarber Home Run Derby Bat Leaked on Social Media
Adding more fuel to the fire that Kyle Schwarber could be participating is a bat leaked on social media. A Phillies fan account posted a picture of a custom bat at the Louisville Slugger factory on Threads, suggesting it was Schwarber’s bat for the Home Run Derby.
There’s nothing that further links that specific bat to Schwarber beyond that Threads post. The alternative explanation for that bat’s existence is simply that it’s Bryce Harper’s to use for the derby. But that hasn’t been corroborated either.
Harper already said he was going to use a normal weight bat to NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Cole Weintraub. The Phillies first baseman has been using a 35-oz. bat since his cycle game on June 21.
It’s worth noting that at best, that post is circumstantial evidence linking Schwarber to the Home Run Derby. But now the combination of the bat and Don Mattingly’s faux pas adds questions for the Phillies All-Star DH to answer. Until Schwarber addresses the derby and the bat, it’s still a matter of speculation.
It should only be a matter of time before Schwarber announces his Home Run Derby plans. Assuming his back is feeling good, he will likely participate.
Like HEAVY’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on HEAVY
The post Phillies Manager Hints at Kyle Schwarber’s Home Run Derby Plans After Reds Win appeared first on HEAVY.