The line-up for Monday night’s Home Run Derby in Miami packs plenty of star power, with young sluggers Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger set to take on reigning champion Giancarlo Stanton, among others.
However, some fans of the Washington Nationals may be disappointed that one player in particular decided not to participate: Bryce Harper.
Harper, who currently leads the Nationals with 20 home runs, has refused to take part in the Home Run Derby since finishing second to Yoenis Cespedes in 2013. But on Monday, the right fielder vowed to participate next summer when All-Star Game festivities come to Nationals Park, under one condition.
Bryce Harper says, if he makes the 2018 All-Star Game, he will participate in the home run derby at Nats Park.
— Barry Svrluga (@barrysvrluga) July 10, 2017
Harper has hinted at this possibility before, telling reporters that “he’d like to do it in D.C.” following the 2015 Home Run Derby.
Barring unforeseen circumstances, the 24-year old should easily make the All-Star team next season. One of the most recognizable faces in the sport, Harper garnered the most All-Star votes of any player this season with 4,630,306.
• Josh Luckenbaugh can be reached at jluckenbaugh@washingtontimes.com.
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