The HR Derby is one of Major League Baseball’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together the game’s biggest power hitters for a thrilling display of home run prowess. With the 2026 Home Run Derby taking place at Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park, fans can expect dramatic long balls, exciting new rules, and a star-studded lineup.
Whether you’re searching for the home run derby participants, home run derby time, or the latest format changes, here’s everything you need to know before the first pitch.
What Time Is the Home Run Derby?
The Home Run Derby time is set for 8:00 p.m. ET on Monday, July 13, 2026, with pre-event coverage beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET. The event will be held at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, one day before the MLB All-Star Game. For the first time, the Home Run Derby will stream exclusively on Netflix, marking a major broadcasting change for the event.
Home Run Derby Participants
The home run derby participants feature some of baseball’s most feared sluggers. While the complete eight-player field was finalized shortly before the event, the headline names include hometown stars Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, along with several emerging power hitters from across Major League Baseball.
Among the notable participants are:
- Kyle Schwarber
- Bryce Harper
- Junior Caminero
- Ben Rice
- Jordan Walker
- Willson Contreras
- Jac Caglianone
- Additional invited sluggers completing the eight-player bracket.
New HR Derby Format in 2026
One of the biggest storylines surrounding the HR Derby is the return of a swing-based format.
Instead of racing against a countdown clock, hitters now receive a set number of swings:
- Round 1: 20 swings per batter
- Top four advance to the semifinals
- Semifinals: 15 swings each
- Championship Round: 15 swings
This marks the first swing-based competition since 2014 and is designed to place greater emphasis on consistency and strategy rather than speed.
Why the Home Run Derby Remains Popular
The Home Run Derby has evolved into one of MLB’s signature events because it gives fans a chance to watch elite sluggers compete in a relaxed but highly entertaining environment.
Unlike regular-season games, the Derby focuses entirely on power hitting, creating unforgettable moments and record-breaking home runs. Players often use customized bats, receive pitches from trusted teammates or coaches, and interact with fans throughout the competition.
Players to Watch
Several participants enter the Derby with strong momentum thanks to impressive first-half performances.
- Kyle Schwarber hopes to thrill the hometown Philadelphia crowd.
- Bryce Harper looks to add a Derby title to his decorated career.
- Junior Caminero represents one of baseball’s brightest young stars.
- Jac Caglianone has quickly become one of the league’s most exciting power hitters.
With a swing-based format returning, patience and efficient swing selection could become just as important as raw power.
Final Thoughts
The HR Derby 2026 promises an exciting night filled with towering home runs, elite talent, and a fresh competitive format. Fans tuning in will witness an impressive group of home run derby participants competing under new rules that reward precision as much as power.
If you’re wondering about the home run derby time, remember the action begins at 8:00 p.m. ET on July 13 from Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park. With baseball’s biggest sluggers ready to compete, the Home Run Derby once again serves as the perfect kickoff to MLB All-Star Week.
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