He feels that it keeps him focused on staying through the ball, which will result in more line-drives as opposed to hitting on the field, where players tend to want to put on a show for fans. Harper adds that his father “throws strikes” and knows where his “sweet spot” is.
Advertisement
Although he’s tied for second in Major League Baseball with 25 home runs this season, Nationals slugger Bryce Harper will not participate in the 30th anniversary of the Home Run Derby.
The Washington Nationals outfielder said he was on the fence about partaking in the long-ball contest, but after some deliberating he decided not to after all.
Depending on who you talk to, Harper is brash or honest, reckless or aggressive, flashy or ultra-talented. If skipping the Home Run Derby is going to result in those type of number in the second-half, then it’s worth it to miss a one-time power display. Cruz is having a strong season after leading the Major League Baseball in home runs past year, as he has 21 home runs and 50 RBIs with a. 304 batting average in 80 games.
Harper had previously told ESPN Radio that he was debating whether or not to do the derby. That can cause a hitter to tire, which can cause him to compensate – and that can cause trouble.
In addition, Harper hasn’t been taking batting practice on the field with the Nationals this season. So, naturally, the Home Run Derby acts as the ideal opportunity to showcase Peak Bryce. “… I don’t think [Home Run Derby] really changes your swing at all. I mean I could go out and play a round of golf and come out and play nine innings today and I wouldn’t have a problem, so that’s definitely not an issue for me”. Harper said that “it’s a huge issue” if his father can’t throw to him and that is why he declined the invitation to participate. “So hopefully in a couple years he’ll be OK and we’ll see where I go”. Harper insisted that wasn’t a factor in this decision.
Advertisement
“No, none”, Williams said.
