​Jordan Walker announced he’ll take part in the Home Run Derby after a standout first half, a story that originally appeared on The Sporting News. The Sporting News is now listed as a preferred source for this update. Walker’s first All-Star campaign has grown even more compelling with the St. Louis Cardinals slugger revealing on Instagram that he will compete in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, giving fans another highlight to anticipate during All-Star Week.
MLB quickly echoed the news on social media, confirming that Walker will bring his formidable bat to the Derby on July 13. The event will stream live on Netflix, beginning at 8 p.m. ET, with pre-event coverage starting at 7 p.m. ET. Cardinals supporters are right to feel proud, as Walker has become one of the National League’s most dangerous hitters this season. Through 89 games, the 24-year-old is hitting .294 with 21 home runs, 70 RBIs—leading the league in RBIs—and an .889 OPS. His blend of power and run production has solidified the middle of St. Louis’ lineup and earned him his first All-Star selection.
Walker has been scorching lately, homering three times in his last seven days and driving in 11 runs. He’s also collected 11 hits over that span, preserving the torrid pace that established him as one of the most explosive first-half breakout stars. In the Cardinals’ 5-1 win over the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday, he went 2-for-4 with an RBI double and two runs scored, adding to the momentum that has defined his season.
Any observer of Walker’s swing understands why he earned the Derby invitation. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds, he wields some of the most impressive raw power in the game. When he makes contact, the ball doesn’t just leave the yard—it often blasts through the fence with speed and authority.
The Home Run Derby has long been the ideal platform for players with such power, offering a stage to display the batting-practice-level displays that teammates have admired for years. Now Walker has the chance to put that power on display for a national audience.
Walker’s progression has made him a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ future. After showing immense potential early in his career, the former first-round pick has compiled a complete season in 2026. In addition to ranking among the NL leaders in home runs, he has established himself as one of baseball’s premier run producers. With 70 RBIs leading the majors, his consistency in clutch situations has been a hallmark of his performance. For a Cardinals club pursuing the Brewers in the NL Central, Walker’s emergence stands out as one of the season’s brightest stories.