Harper in Cincinnati Derby
Bryce Harper Joins Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park in Cincinnati as 'Legend Pick'
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Bryce Harper is heading back to the Home Run Derby — this time at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Harper will compete on Monday, looking to win the event for the second time in his career, according to Myrtle Beach Online.
Harper was added to the National League All-Star roster as MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's 'Legend Pick.' He has hit 20 home runs this season. This year's Derby returns to a more traditional format, giving each hitter a set number of swings per round.
Harper Returns as Commissioner's Special Legend Pick
Harper did not earn his All-Star spot through the standard voting process. Commissioner Rob Manfred selected him directly as a 'Legend Pick,' a special designation reserved for marquee players. That selection also opened the door for Harper to join the Home Run Derby field, Sun Herald reported.
Harper has slugged 20 home runs this season. That total is solid but not among the league's best. Still, his star power and history with the Derby made him a natural fit for the event at his home ballpark.
Citizens Bank Park Gives Harper a Home-Field Edge
The Derby is set for Monday at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Harper has played there for years as a Phillie. Competing in front of a home crowd gives him a massive advantage — Philadelphia fans are loud and fiercely loyal. Expect a roaring atmosphere when Harper steps into the batter's box.
Citizens Bank Park is known as a hitter-friendly venue. Its dimensions and air conditions favor long balls. That could help every competitor, but it sets the stage perfectly for Harper to put on a show for his home fans.
Derby Format Goes Back to Basics This Year
This year's Home Run Derby drops the timed format used in recent years. Instead, each player gets a set number of swings per round. That is the more classic setup fans grew up watching. It puts a premium on every swing, since hitters cannot just keep going until the clock runs out.
The change could shake up strategy. Under the old timed format, a slow start was recoverable. With a fixed swing count, hitters must stay locked in from the first pitch. For a slugger like Harper, that pressure could bring out his best — or end his run early.
Harper Chases His Second Derby Title
Harper has won the Home Run Derby before. A second title — especially at home in Philadelphia — would be one of the most memorable moments of his career. He is one of baseball's biggest names, and this event puts him center stage before the All-Star Game itself.
The Derby is set for Monday. The All-Star Game follows later in the week. For Phillies fans, watching Harper launch home runs at Citizens Bank Park could be the highlight of the entire All-Star break, San Luis Obispo Tribune noted.
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