​There are six confirmed participants for the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, and one star who has long been expected to compete is Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies. Harper, the reigning NL MVP and a standout slugger for Philadelphia, had already announced his intention to take part in the Derby, signaling his eagerness to showcase his power on the big stage. The news of his participation came in the wake of Philadelphia’s 1-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds, a game that secured a series win for the Phillies and fueled talk about what the Derby lineup might look like this year.
interim Phillies manager Don Mattingly weighed in on Harper’s decision following the game, expressing his support and enthusiasm for Harper competing in the event. Speaking to NBC Sports Philadelphia during the postgame coverage, Mattingly said he was glad Harper would be participating, especially with the Derby taking place in Philadelphia. His comments reflected the excitement around Harper’s hometown crowd and the potential for a memorable Derby appearance under the bright lights of a friendly Philadelphia audience.
Mattingly’s remarks, however, included a small moment of ambiguity that suggested another familiar Phillies slugger might also join the Derby field. In a slip of the tongue, the manager hinted that both Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber could be in the event. When reporters corrected him, noting that Schwarber had not formally announced his participation, Mattingly walked back his initial assertion. He clarified that he had expected Kyle Schwarber to jump in, but conceded that Schwarber might be waiting for the right moment to confirm his plans.
Schwarber has discussed the Derby as a possibility, though his participation has rested on a critical condition: his back must feel better. The star designated hitter had previously indicated his willingness to compete, but in late June he was briefly scratched from the lineup for a game against the Washington Nationals due to back concerns. He still managed to appear as a pinch hitter in the following game, suggesting that his back had improved enough to test his swing in a competitive setting.
As the Derby date approaches, anticipation continues to build. The event is scheduled for Monday, July 13, with the full field expected to be announced soon. With only two participants still unconfirmed, the remaining decision may hinge on Schwarber’s final health status and whether he will publicly declare his intent to participate, joining Harper on the sport’s biggest home run stage this season.
Harper’s strong performance this season, including his ongoing power display, has positioned him as a marquee attraction for Derby fans. He sits among the leaders in the league in home runs, continuing to showcase the blend of power and plate discipline that has defined his career. The Derby presence would not only give Harper a chance for another standout moment but would also provide Philadelphia fans with the opportunity to celebrate one of their homegrown stars as he competes in a national showcase.
As the countdown to the Derby continues, supporters are keeping an eye on the remaining players who have yet to confirm their participation. Schwarber’s status remains the focal point, given his high profile within the Phillies and his established track record as a formidable slugger. Once the final participant list is set and Schwarber announces his decision—assuming health permits—the field will be complete, and fans can begin to anticipate the exciting matchups and displays of power that have become synonymous with the Home Run Derby.
This update reflects ongoing reporting on the Phillies’ plans and the Derby field and aims to provide a clear, search-friendly recap of Harper’s participation, Mattingly’s comments, and Schwarber’s conditional readiness.