Kansas City Royals rookie slugger Jac Caglianone is taking his powerful swing to one of baseball's biggest stages after announcing he will compete in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby.
Caglianone revealed his decision during an appearance on MLB Network, saying he accepted the invitation to participate in the annual event, which will be held Monday, July 13, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. His father, Jeff Caglianone, is expected to serve as his pitcher during the competition.
The 23-year-old has emerged as one of baseball's top young power hitters during the first half of the season. Through Wednesday, Caglianone had launched 14 home runs while posting a .455 slugging percentage. He enjoyed a breakout June, batting .309 with nine home runs, 19 RBIs and a .647 slugging percentage.
Advanced metrics also highlight his elite power. Caglianone ranks among the league's best in average exit velocity, hard-hit rate and bat speed, reinforcing his reputation as one of the game's premier sluggers.
Despite not being selected as an All-Star, Caglianone will still take part in the Home Run Derby, becoming the sixth player in Royals history to compete in the event. He joins a list that includes Bo Jackson, Danny Tartabull, Mike Moustakas, Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr., who finished as the Derby runner-up in 2024.
Caglianone is among the first players confirmed for this year's Home Run Derby, which will be televised live on Netflix as part of MLB All-Star festivities.
