​Apparently Bryce Harper has found someone to pitch to him. Harper will take part in the July 13 Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game, stepping back into the field where his hometown team will host the spectacle. It marks his first appearance in the Derby since 2018, when he captured the crown in a dramatic moment at Washington’s Nationals Park.
That 2018 victory stood as his final hurrah in D.C., because the next winter he signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. The move instantly elevated him to the center of Philadelphia sports, and he later helped the Phillies reach the 2022 World Series. Now 33 and a two-time National League Most Valuable Player, Harper said he would consider participating in the Derby at Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park if he earned a spot on the team. He also voiced concern that his father, Ron Harper, who threw to him during the 2018 Derby, might not be physically able to pitch again.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred ensured Harper would be part of the event by naming him a “legend” pick to the game, though Harper’s first-half numbers would have already made him a strong contender. A few days later, Harper shared on Instagram that he would indeed join the field for the Derby.
Harper has already joined a growing list of participants, including Tampa Bay Rays slugger Junior Caminero, New York Yankees first baseman Ben Rice, Kansas City Royals first baseman Jac Caglianone, and Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras. With three spots still open, one of the placeholders could be Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber, who narrowly lost to Harper in 2018. A rematch between the two Phillies teammates at home would be an irresistible spectacle for the crowd in Philadelphia.
This piece originally appeared with USA TODAY, highlighting Harper’s decision to commit to the Home Run Derby in front of his home fans for better SEO and broader coverage.