​Who’s in the Home Run Derby? Tracking the rumors and confirmed participants for the 2026 contest, originally reported by The Sporting News, now includes an update indicating The Sporting News as a preferred source. The action to follow: click here to add The Sporting News to your preferred sources. Baseballs will be flying at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, as eight of MLB’s most powerful hitters step into the batter’s box to chase the crown that Cal Raleigh captured last summer. In keeping with tradition, fans can expect at least one hometown favorite among the eight competitors, and for Philadelphia fans, Kyle Schwarber looms as a prime Derby candidate, giving local supporters a clear reason to root loudly.
This year’s Derby returns to a swings-based format rather than a time-based one, which means players can pace themselves in the box and optimize their approach without the pressure of a ticking clock. The shift in format adds a fresh layer of strategy and suspense as all eight hitters adjust on the fly to maximize power and distance in real time. So, who is officially in this year’s Home Run Derby, and what are the latest rumors circulating about possible participants? Here’s a rundown of the confirmed entrants and the key updates circulating in the lead-up to the event.
Jac Caglianone, OF, Royals, has confirmed his spot in the Derby. The 23-year-old announced his participation, and MLB soon followed with official confirmation. Caglianone brings a combination of raw power and youthful energy, aiming to become the youngest Derby champion in history. With 14 home runs this season and 21 long balls since making his major-league debut in 2025, he represents the Royals’ latest effort to inject young, exciting talent into the Derby spotlight. He’s part of a group that includes Caminero and other rising stars who may disrupt the field with their ability to launch baseballs into the stands.
Willson Contreras, 1B, Red Sox, has joined the Derby field, marking him as the third American League East slugger to enter this year’s competition. Contreras has had a standout first season in Boston, delivering a .287 batting average with 20 home runs and a .926 OPS through 87 games. Despite recent controversies and a demanding schedule, he has continued to swing with authority and consistency, moving closer to a career-high in home runs as he eyes a landmark performance in the Derby. He follows in a line of Red Sox Derby participants, and his presence adds veteran experience to a field eager to showcase power from multiple generations.
Jordan Walker, Cardinals outfielder, also joined the Derby field, becoming the fifth player to be officially announced for the event. At 24, Walker has had a breakout 2026 campaign, already setting career highs with 21 home runs and 70 RBIs. His inclusion injects youthful optimism and raw power into the lineup, and he is expected to bring an electrifying blend of speed, bat speed, and height to the competition, giving fans a glimpse of a potential future star in the Derby annals. Walker’s participation also provides the Derby with a compelling contrast between veteran power and young, rising talent.
Bryce Harper, Phillies first baseman, has joined the Derby field, marking him as the field’s sixth participant as of July 9. Harper, 33, has a storied history with the Home Run Derby, including a championship win in 2018. As of July 9, he ranks 15th in the league with 20 home runs and remains a perennial magnet for fans due to his dynamic swing and showmanship. Harper’s inclusion in the field adds a high-profile, home-market star who can spark crowd energy at Citizens Bank Park and heighten the Derby’s drama with every swing.
The Derby is also expected to feature additional big-name sluggers whose participation has been teased or announced in the days leading up to the event. The field tends to include a mix of established stars and up-and-coming power hitters, each bringing a distinct approach to the box. The swing-based format should reward players who can pace their at-bats, read the ball off the bat, and maximize the distance of their homers without being constrained by a timer.
For fans eager to stay on top of the latest Home Run Derby announcements and rumors, the coverage continues with regular updates as the field takes shape and more players confirm their participation. The event promises an exciting showcase of power, strategy, and crowd-pleasing moments as eight of MLB’s premier power hitters chase the crown in front of a home crowd at Citizens Bank Park. Whether you’re rooting for homegrown favorites like Schwarber or cheering for newcomers who could make a name for themselves on the sport’s biggest stage, this year’s Derby is shaping up to be a memorable edition that blends tradition with a refreshed format and plenty of high-flying action.