Full Breakdown
Mattingly’s Slip Fuels Kyle Schwarber Derby Speculation
7/10/2026, 8:52:44 PM
Core Event
During the Phillies’ 1–0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on July 9, 2026, interim manager Don Mattingly was asked about first- baseman Bryce Harper’s participation in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby. After confirming his excitement for Harper, Mattingly added, “Him and Kyle both, right?” and later clarified, “Not sure on Kyle yet? Okay, I thought Kyle was going to do it. Maybe he’s waiting to make sure everything’s good.” The remarks suggested that slugger Kyle Schwarber might also compete, prompting intense media and fan speculation ahead of the Derby scheduled for July 13, 2026 at Citizens Bank Park.
Background & Context
Harper announced on July 9 that he will compete in the Derby in his home ballpark, making six of the eight participants known. The field also includes Ben Rice (New York Yankees), Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays), Willson Contreras (Boston Red Sox), Jac Caglianone (Kansas City Royals) and Jordan Walker (St. Louis Cardinals). For the first time since 2014, the Derby will be run without a clock, and Netflix will broadcast it under its three-year MLB media rights deal.
Key Figures
- Don Mattingly – Interim manager of the Philadelphia Phillies, former MLB player and manager.
- Bryce Harper – Phillies star, 2026 All-Star, announced Derby participation.
- Kyle Schwarber – Phillies designated hitter, 2022 Derby participant, currently leading MLB with 32 home runs.
- Joe Davis – Fox broadcaster who called Schwarber’s 28th homer of the season (not a participant but referenced in coverage).
Data & Statistics
- Schwarber has 32 home runs and 58 RBIs, the fastest Phillies to reach 30 homers in a season (80 games, achieved June 28).
- He hit a go-ahead two-run homer against the New York Mets at Citi Field to reach the milestone.
- Schwarber’s 2022 Derby appearance was his only previous participation; he also competed in the 2018 Derby, losing to Harper in the finals.
- Harper’s 2026 Derby will be his second appearance in his home stadium; he previously won the 2018 Derby at Nationals Park.
Official Statements & Responses
Mattingly reiterated his support for Harper, noting the excitement of a hometown Derby. He later emphasized uncertainty about Schwarber, indicating the decision may hinge on the player’s health. Schwarber, speaking to the Philadelphia Inquirer, said he wants “to make sure I’m not putting myself in a risky position,” referencing his lingering lower-back soreness that sidelined him for two games in June. MLB officials confirmed the Derby will take place at 8 p.m. ET on July 13.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts cautioned that Mattingly’s comments may have been a premature “jump the gun,” potentially pressuring Schwarber to decide before fully assessing his back condition. A fan-run Threads post showing a custom Louisville Slugger bat was cited as speculative evidence of Schwarber’s involvement, but no verification linked the bat to the player.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- No formal announcement from Schwarber confirming Derby participation has been released.
- The custom bat image remains unverified; it could belong to Harper, who confirmed he will use a standard-weight bat.
- While Mattingly’s slip suggests intent, the Phillies organization has not issued an official statement confirming Schwarber’s entry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m glad he’s doing it, especially in Philly. Him and Kyle both, right?” — Don Mattingly, post-game interview
- “I thought Kyle was going to do it. Maybe he’s waiting to make sure everything’s good.” — Don Mattingly, follow-up question
- “I just want to make sure I’m not putting myself in a risky position,” — Kyle Schwarber, interview with *The Philadelphia Inquirer*
- “There's been a lot of big ones that either get us early leads or get us back in the game.” — Don Mattingly, USA TODAY Sports media availability
What’s Next
The Phillies expect Schwarber to announce his Derby decision within the next 72 hours. If he confirms, the final Derby lineup will be set for July 13, with the event serving as a centerpiece of the All-Star weekend celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
