The Home Run Derby is Monday night and the Philadelphia fans in the stands will get to see both of their guys swing for the fences. Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper are both in the field, and now we know when each of them steps into the box.
Schwarber hits fourth in the first round. That’s actually a pretty good spot. He gets to set a number early and let the guys behind him chase it. This is his third Derby after showing up in 2018 and 2022. He’s the betting favorite this year, which feels right given the power he’s shown all season. But there’s history here. Last time Schwarber made the finals, he lost to Harper back in 2018 when Harper was still with the Nationals in DC. So there’s a little bit of a rivalry subplot even if neither guy is talking about it.
Harper goes last. That’s the eighth and final spot in the first round. And honestly, that’s the best spot you can draw. He gets to watch everybody else hit, see what the balls are doing, figure out his approach, and know exactly how many dingers he needs to advance. It’s a real advantage. This is Harper’s third Derby too. He lost in the finals way back in 2013 and then won it in 2018. So he knows what it takes.
The whole thing starts with Willson Contreras hitting first. He’s the opener, which is never easy. You’re setting the tone with nobody to watch first.
One thing worth keeping an eye on. The Derby is in Philadelphia, which means the crowd is going to be loud and heavily biased toward the home guys. That energy could help Schwarber and Harper both. Or it could add pressure. We’ll see.
More details are coming as we get closer to Monday night. But for now, the order is set and the stage is ready.
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