In addition to being named as the starting second baseman for the National League All-Star team this year, Chicago Cubs infielder Javier Baez will reportedly be participating in the Home Run Derby as well. He and teammate Kyle Schwarber, who have each hit 17 home runs this season, are tied for the sixth most homers in the National League. They will be the first Cubs players in the derby since Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant partook in the fun back in the 2015 season.
Report: Javy Baez, Kyle Schwarber will take part in the Home Run Derby: https://t.co/bOnZcRqeGy
Because we love you, here's all 17 of Javy's bombs this year. pic.twitter.com/vPpmIMKqnK
— NBC Sports Chicago (@NBCSChicago) July 11, 2018
Joining them on the NL side are Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper (22 HR) and Los Angeles Dodgers corner infielder Max Muncy (20 HR). Harper will be competing as the “hometown favorite” in what many believe could be his last year with the Nationals. He had stated in late June that his participation would depend on whether or not he was named to the All-Star team, and since he was indeed voted as a starter by the fans he has decided to go ahead and join in the festivities. Muncy, who has broken out big time for the Dodgers in the first half, has already hit five times as many dingers as he did during his entire with the Oakland A’s (and in 28 fewer games, to boot).
There has not been any word yet as to who will join on the American League side, but all indications are that New York Yankees sluggers Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton (who just so happen to be the event’s past two champions) will not compete in this year’s event.
The 2018 Home Run Derby will take place on Monday, July 16 starting at 8:00 PM ET, and will be televised on ESPN.
If you would like to receive an email each time a new Chicago Cubs article is published, fill out our email notification form.
