CINCINNATI — Bryce Harper is going back to the Home Run Derby.
The Phillies’ first baseman announced Thursday on Instagram that he will participate in Monday night’s Derby at Citizens Bank Park, giving the hometown crowd one of the event’s biggest draws.
It will be Harper’s third career Derby appearance and first since 2018, when he won the event over now-teammate Kyle Schwarber at Nationals Park. He also participated in 2013 at Citi Field, finishing second to Yoenis Céspedes.
This one will come in a different uniform, in a different home ballpark and in front of a fan base that has embraced him since he signed with the Phillies before the 2019 season.
Harper enters the event with 20 home runs this season. He has also found a groove recently after breaking out a heavier 35-ounce bat during his cycle against the Mets on June 21. Since then, Harper has been in a rhythm.
Hear from Bryce Harper after collecting his first career cycle!
He said Wednesday that he would not use that same bat in the Derby.
“I’d probably use just a normal one,” Harper said, smiling. “I don’t think I could last if I did that too many swings.”
The bigger factor was finding the right pitcher. Harper’s father, Ron, pitched to him in each of his first two Derby appearances, including the 2018 win in Washington. Harper said Wednesday that multiple people had reached out this time, but comfort mattered most.
“If I’m not comfortable doing it, I won’t do it,” Harper said.
One day later, he had his answer.
Harper’s decision also gives the Phillies at least one participant in the Derby, with Kyle Schwarber’s status still worth watching. Schwarber entered Thursday leading the majors in home runs.
The Derby is scheduled for Monday at 8 p.m. on Netflix, one night before Citizens Bank Park hosts the 96th MLB All-Star Game.
Harper already has one Derby title.
Now he’ll try for another in South Philadelphia.