​The Philadelphia Phillies are hosting Major League Baseball’s All-Star events at Citizens Bank Park in 2026, with the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game slated for Monday, July 13, and Tuesday, July 14. The Phillies will feature six All-Stars this year: Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Jhoan Duran, Brandon Marsh, Bryce Harper, and Kyle Schwarber. Harper and Schwarber will compete in the Home Run Derby, Marsh is a starting position player, and Sanchez may also be in line to start the game.
However, a recent report from Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic announced that Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani will miss the All-Star Game due to an ongoing irritation in his left knee, effectively ruling him out as a pitcher and as a starting designated hitter for this year’s showcase. Ohtani’s absence is a significant development for both teams and the event, as the Dodgers’ plans for Ohtani are altered, and Philadelphia gains a notable opportunity.
With Ohtani out, the door opens wider for Sanchez to potentially start on the mound. Additionally, Ohtani’s absence removes him from the lineup as the starting DH, creating a clear, open slot at DH for the National League. Given these changes, many observers believe Kyle Schwarber should be named the NL’s starting designated hitter for the 2026 All-Star Game, replacing Ohtani in that role.
Schwarber, who has been fan- and player-voted strong contender for the DH spot, would leave little room for dispute if named to start. He has delivered impressive numbers this season, with 32 home runs, a .254 batting average, 58 RBIs, and a .940 OPS—one of the higher marks in Major League Baseball. Although the decision isn’t official yet, making Schwarber the NL’s starting DH in place of Ohtani fits logically with the current circumstances surrounding the roster and the All-Star selections.
The All-Star lineup will inevitably feature a shift due to Ohtani’s withdrawal, but Schwarber’s candidacy remains strong. The wearing question now is whether Schwarber will be announced as the NL’s starting DH for the 2026 All-Star Game, reflecting the open DH slot created by Ohtani’s absence. The situation highlights Schwarber’s continued impact for the Phillies and the broader implications for NL All-Star selections this season.