The 2026 Home Run Derby will take place on Monday, July 13, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, a venue well known for rewarding power hitters. According to Statcast, the stadium ranks as the fifth-most favorable ballpark for home runs, creating the expectation of another entertaining long-ball competition. This year’s contest will also introduce a new swing-based format, replacing the previous timed system.
While excitement is building for the annual event, one notable player is expected to miss out. Angels star Mike Trout, who is currently on the injured list with a hamstring strain, indicated he is likely to skip the Derby. His absence is particularly disappointing because Philadelphia is close to his hometown of Millville, New Jersey, making the event a potential homecoming.
Another prominent slugger who will not compete is Astros standout Yordan Alvarez. After dealing with batting-related injuries last year, he has chosen not to participate in this year’s competition.
With an eight-player field still being finalized, additional names are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Caminero becomes the first confirmed entrant
The first official participant was revealed on June 30, when Rays third baseman Junior Caminero committed to the Home Run Derby. His announcement followed an outstanding stretch in which he launched six home runs over four games.
At the time his participation became official, Caminero ranked fifth in Major League Baseball with 22 home runs. He had also produced an impressive .292 batting average, a .384 on-base percentage, and a .548 slugging percentage.
His recent performances have only strengthened his reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous young hitters heading into the All-Star festivities.
Young slugger continues to build an impressive résumé
Caminero already has a place in baseball history thanks to last season’s remarkable home run total. He became only the fourth player ever to reach 40 home runs at age 21 or younger, finishing the year with 45.
That total placed him behind only Hall of Famer Eddie Mathews, who hit 47 home runs as a 21-year-old in 1953. The only other players to achieve the milestone at such a young age are Hall of Famer Mel Ott, who blasted 42 homers as a 20-year-old in 1929, and 2023 National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., who finished with 41 at age 21 in 2019.
Players who have produced that level of power so early in their careers have typically gone on to become elite stars, and Caminero appears to be following the same path.
Another chance after last year’s runner-up finish
This year’s appearance will mark Caminero’s second consecutive Home Run Derby. He reached the final in 2025 before finishing as the runner-up.
His bid for the title ended with a loss to Cal Raleigh, but he now returns with another opportunity to capture the Derby crown.
As the first player to officially commit, Caminero will headline the field while the remaining participants are announced ahead of the event in Philadelphia.