Full Breakdown
Mike Trout Likely to Skip All-Star Home Run Derby Amid Hamstring Strain
6/28/2026, 12:19:58 AM
Core Event: Trout Declines Derby Invitation
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout announced on Friday he is unlikely to compete in the 2026 MLB All-Star Home Run Derby in Philadelphia. The decision follows a strained right hamstring suffered while running to first base on June 17, which placed him on the 10-day injured list on June 18. Trout expects to be healthy for the All-Star Game on July 14, but the injury “threw things off” for the Derby scheduled for July 13 at Citizen’s Bank Park.
Background & Statistics: Injury, Season Performance, and Derby Context
Trout, 34, grew up in Millville, New Jersey, about 45 miles south of Philadelphia, and has wanted to appear in the Derby before retirement. He called the 2026 event “cool.” The hamstring strain halted his rehab, though he has begun a running program and plans to resume batting practice this weekend. In 74 games he is batting .234 with a .394 on-base percentage, .472 slugging, 17 homers and 36 RBIs, and ranks second in AL outfield voting behind Aaron Judge. Fans expressed a desire to see him, noting that many would love his participation.
Official Statements & Responses
Major League Baseball confirmed Trout received a formal Derby invitation. The Angels have not set a specific timetable for his return but said he is “expected to begin swinging a bat this weekend.” MLB noted the 2026 Derby will use a swing-based format without a clock, a change aimed at reducing injury risk. Participants are typically announced the week before the event.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree Trout’s hamstring strain is the reason for his likely Derby skip, but no official confirmation of his final decision has been released. The Angels have not disclosed a definitive return date, leaving uncertainty about his availability for the All-Star Game.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They asked me when we were in Sacramento (last weekend), but I probably won't do it.” — Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels center fielder
- “It would have been cool to do it, but the injury kind of threw things off.” — Mike Trout
- “When it came out that the All-Star Game was in Philly, I thought it definitely would have been cool to do. Then I hurt my leg, so I'm leaning toward not doing it.” — Mike Trout
- “#Angels CF Mike Trout said he is leaning against participating in the HR Derby at ASG in Philly. The reason? ‘I hurt my hamstring,' he said,” — Mike DiGiovanna, reporter
What’s Next
The Home Run Derby proceeds on July 13 with the swing-based format, followed by the All-Star Game on July 14. Trout’s health will be monitored over the weekend; if he returns to full strength, he remains a candidate for the American League outfield roster. Final Derby participant lists are expected the week of the event.
