Phillies' Kyle Schwarber Talks New Rules, Format for 2026 MLB Home Run Derby in Video

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber weighed in on the updated rules and format for the 2026 Home Run Derby.

"It's gonna be a different format, 20 swings, which I think is gonna be a little bit easier on the bodies for us," Schwarber said during a Monday appearance on the Pat McAfee Show (1:36 mark). "Where swinging for two minutes, three minutes straight is a lot."

Each player in this year's Home Run Derby with get 20 swings in the first round before receiving 15 swings in each of the next two rounds, per Chad Jennings of The Athletic. A clock has been eliminated, while bonus rounds aren't included either.

MLB previously used a timed format for the Home Run Derby from 2015-25, giving participants an unlimited amount of swings until the clock ran out. While it led to increased home run totals, exhaustion was also a factor for players as the event continued into the later rounds.

Schwarber is extremely familiar with the old rules, as he previously appeared in the Home Run Derby in 2018 and 2022. He'll also be participating in the 2026 event.

The four-time All-Star has continued to showcase his power at the plate this year, leading the majors with 32 home runs.

Schwarber has also recorded nine doubles, 59 walks and 59 RBI while slashing .254/.367/.560.