WASHINGTON — A day after the announcement that Washington Nationals’ Bryce Harper would start in this year’s All-Star Game, the outfielder says he has elected not to participate in the Home Run Derby.
On Monday, Harper told reporters he would pass on the event, which occurs the night before the All-Star Game, ESPN reports. Harper is set to start the All-Star game in outfield and led the National League players in votes.
Harper said one reason he wouldn’t participate is because of his dad’s recent surgery, ESPN says. Ron Harper — who pitched to his son in the 2013 Home Run Derby — recently had rotator cuff surgery after a snowboarding accident.
“Not having my dad throwing to me is a big issue for me,” Harper said to ESPN.
Harper has 25 home runs this season and is tied with Todd Frazier and Albert Pujols for second behind Giancarlo Stanton, who has 27 home runs as of Monday evening.
The All-Star Game and other events will take place in Cincinnati from July 12 — 14.
