The 2026 Home Run Derby lived up to the hype, even if it left thousands of Philadelphia Phillies fans disappointed.
Phillies slugger and MLB home run leader Kyle Schwarber fell just short on Monday, losing in the final round at Citizens Bank Park to St. Louis Cardinals star Jordan Walker. Schwarber went first and clubbed 11 homers, only for Walker to surpass him with 12 and win the title.
Walker homered on his final six swings despite intense booing and pressure, looking as cool as a cucumber while he did it.
After the event, Schwarber expressed admiration and respect for the 24-year-old champion.
Kyle Schwarber marveled at Jordan Walker's incredible performance in the final round of the Home Run Derby on Monday night. pic.twitter.com/qWsXNbvHXm
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) July 14, 2026
"That was impressive," Schwarber said via NBC Sports Philadelphia. "You tip your hat to him... He was able to slow it down and be in the moment there. He was able to get the job done. He was hitting some laser beams... It was really impressive what he was able to do."
As always, Schwarber was humble, respectful, and a good sport despite just missing out on what would have been his first home run derby title.
He put on a show and had a great performance. But in the end, it just wasn't quite enough.