Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper may be preparing for a return to the Home Run Derby stage for the first time since his memorable 2018 victory in Washington. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, Harper said he will “likely” participate in this year’s Home Run Derby during All-Star Week in Philadelphia, provided he earns a National League All-Star selection.
The 2026 Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday, July 13 at Citizens Bank Park, one night before the Major League Baseball All-Star Game on July 14.
Harper has responded in a big way this season after being publicly challenged during the offseason by Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski to rediscover his elite offensive form. Entering late May, Harper is batting .277 with 12 home runs, 31 RBIs, a .364 on-base percentage, and an .896 OPS.
Bryce Harper deposits one into the bullpen off of Paul Skenes 😮
He has now homered in back-to-back games! pic.twitter.com/tmSM0SebnW
— MLB (@MLB) May 17, 2026
Harper famously won the 2018 Derby while representing the Washington Nationals during All-Star festivities in Washington, D.C. He has not competed in the event since. With the All-Star Game now heading to Philadelphia, a Harper appearance would instantly become one of the marquee moments of the summer for Phillies fans hoping to see their superstar chase another Derby crown in South Philadelphia.
Throwback to Bryce Harper’s unforgettable 2018 Home Run Derby victory in Washington, D.C.
He slugged his way to the title with his dad, Ron, pitching to him ⚾️💪🏻pic.twitter.com/tHvNzmQuT8 https://t.co/JOYu87VBS9
— Sports Highlights Digest (@SportsDigestHQ) February 14, 2026
