Derby Semifinal Miss
2026 MLB Home Run Derby: Harper, Schwarber Hit Early Homers; Schwarber Exits Early
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Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper went head-to-head at the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, held at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on Monday. Harper, the hometown hero, fell short against Schwarber in their matchup — though Schwarber himself failed to advance to the semifinals, according to Clutch Points.
The first round was dominated by Willson Contreras of the Boston Red Sox and Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals. Both players clubbed 13 home runs each to take the top spots on the leaderboard, according to Herald Courier.
Contreras and Walker Set the Pace in Round One
Contreras and Walker each hit 13 home runs in Round 1, sharing the top of the leaderboard. Journal Times reported that their performances set the early standard for the entire field. It was a dominant showing from two players not widely picked as favorites heading into the event.
New York Yankees first baseman Ben Rice had the toughest night of anyone. He managed just 7 home runs — the fewest in the field — and was the first player eliminated from the competition, according to Pinstripe Alley.
Junior Caminero Shines But Bows Out to Walker
Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero put on a strong show, launching 12 home runs in Round 1. That was the second-highest total of any competitor in the first round. But it was not enough to save him.
Caminero was eliminated by Jordan Walker in a first-round matchup, according to Sports Illustrated. The young Rays star made a strong impression despite the early exit. Walker's 13-homer total proved to be the deciding factor.
Harper vs. Schwarber: A Philadelphia Showdown
The matchup between Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber was one of the most anticipated of the night. Both players are fan favorites in Philadelphia. Harper is the Phillies' first baseman, and Schwarber is the team's power-hitting left fielder.
Schwarber outperformed Harper in their first-round battle, according to Clutch Points. But Schwarber's run ended there — he did not advance past the first round. Harper's wife, Kayla, was also in attendance and drew attention for her all-black outfit at Citizens Bank Park, according to The Big Lead.
Walker and Contreras Advance as Derby Heats Up
With 13 homers apiece, Walker and Contreras locked up the top two spots heading into the next round. Their performance pushed out Schwarber, Caminero, and Rice in the first round. The semifinals promised more power from the competition's two biggest first-round hitters.
Kenosha News confirmed that Contreras and Walker led the field after Round 1 wrapped up. The Derby, held at Citizens Bank Park in front of a loud Philadelphia crowd, delivered early fireworks before the All-Star Game itself.
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