Murakami and Schwarber Complete Home Run Derby Field in Philadelphia
TITLE: Murakami and Schwarber Complete Home Run Derby Field in Philadelphia
The final two competitors for the 2026 Home Run Derby have been named, with Munetaka Murakami of the White Sox and Kyle Schwarber of the Phillies rounding out the eight-player field. The power-hitting showcase is scheduled for Monday, July 13, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, a venue known for its home run friendly dimensions.
Murakami, a rookie, makes his Derby debut after an impressive start to his first MLB season. Prior to a hamstring strain on May 29 that sidelined him for six weeks, he had clubbed 20 home runs in just 57 games. His return to the White Sox lineup on Friday clears the way for his participation in the event, where his reputation for hitting “moonshots” is expected to be on full display. Thirteen of his twenty homers this season were considered “no-doubters.”
Schwarber, the reigning National League home run champion, will provide local flavor for the Philadelphia crowd, joining teammate Bryce Harper. His inclusion was announced on Friday, solidifying the lineup for the new swing-based format.
Notable players who will not be participating include Angels star Mike Trout, who recently returned from a hamstring injury and opted out, and Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez, who is skipping the event due to past batting injuries. The Derby promises an exciting contest with its updated format, moving away from the previous timed rounds.
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