The Philadelphia Phillies may have accidentally revealed one of the biggest remaining questions surrounding the 2026 Home Run Derby.
Following the Phillies’ 1-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds to secure the series win, interim manager Don Mattingly appeared to let slip that slugger Kyle Schwarber will be joining Bryce Harper in this year’s Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park. While Harper has already confirmed his participation, Schwarber has yet to make an official announcement.
Speaking during NBC Sports Philadelphia’s postgame coverage, Mattingly praised Harper’s decision to compete in front of the home fans.
“I’m glad he’s doing it, especially in Philly,” Mattingly said.
However, while discussing the festivities, Mattingly seemingly referenced both Harper and Schwarber as Derby participants before members of the media reminded him that Schwarber has not publicly confirmed his plans.
The apparent slip immediately fueled speculation that an official announcement from Schwarber could be coming soon.
Schwarber previously indicated he was interested in participating, but only if his back was feeling healthy enough to handle the extra swings. The Phillies designated hitter dealt with back discomfort late last month, missing a game during the series against the Washington Nationals before returning in a pinch-hit role. Since then, he has remained in the lineup without any additional setbacks.
If healthy, Schwarber would be one of the marquee attractions in this year’s event. Entering the All-Star break, the veteran slugger leads Major League Baseball with 32 home runs and has once again established himself as one of the sport’s premier power hitters.
Hosting the All-Star festivities in Philadelphia makes Schwarber’s potential participation even more meaningful. Citizens Bank Park will stage the Home Run Derby and All-Star Game for the first time since 1996, giving Phillies fans the opportunity to watch two of their biggest stars compete on baseball’s biggest midsummer stage.
Harper already knows what it’s like to win the Derby in front of a home crowd after capturing the 2018 title at Nationals Park. Coincidentally, he defeated Schwarber in the championship round that year, creating the possibility of another memorable showdown eight years later if Schwarber officially enters the field.
Additional speculation emerged earlier this week after images circulated on social media showing what appeared to be a custom Louisville Slugger bat reportedly prepared for Schwarber’s Home Run Derby use. While the images alone did not confirm his participation, Mattingly’s comments have only intensified expectations that the Phillies slugger will soon make it official.
Until Schwarber publicly confirms his decision, his status remains unofficial. But after Mattingly’s postgame comments following the win over Cincinnati, it appears increasingly likely that Phillies fans will see both Harper and Schwarber representing the hometown club in one of baseball’s signature events.