Kyle Schwarber says he’ll consider participating in Home Run Derby

The Phillies haven’t had a representative in the Home Run Derby since 2018, but that could change if Kyle Schwarber is up for the challenge. With a National League leading 27 home runs, it’ll be shocking if the league does not extend an invitation to Schwarber.

The left fielder has so far hesitated to commit to entering the competition, but in an interview with MLB.com‘s Todd Zolecki, Schwarber said he would consider going to Los Angeles for the derby, but only if he was selected to represent the Phillies at the All-Star Game.

“I don’t think I’d do it if I wasn’t there,” Schwarber told Zolecki. “If I was there, I would consider it. It was fun, but taxing. I’d be up in the air about it.”

If Schwarber does participate, it’ll be the second time he’s played in the event in his career. In 2018, Schwarber competed against both Rhys Hoskins and Bryce Harper at the Home Run Derby in Washington D.C. He eliminated Hoskins in the second round, but came up short in the finals against Harper.

Schwarber does have a decent chance at earning a roster spot at the All-Star Game. He was voted National League Player of the Month in June. Schwarber came into Saturday’s game with a .269/.371/.685 slash line since June 1.

The National League starters in the outfield, who were elected via fan vote, are Atlanta’s Ronald Acuña Jr., Los Angeles’ Mookie Betts and San Francisco’s Joc Pederson.

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