Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong announced Tuesday that he will decline an invitation to compete in the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby.
The 24-year-old outfielder intends to participate in the event later in his career but will skip the upcoming Midsummer Classic showcase, according to ESPN's Jesse Rogers.
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Crow-Armstrong had previously expressed hesitation about his fit for the tournament, citing a contrast in his offensive approach compared to traditional power hitters.
"No, that's not for me," Crow-Armstrong said. "That's a different kind of power.
I don't know if I can withstand however long the timer is there. That would be a struggle."
The decision comes amid a productive offensive stretch. He has recorded a .
284 batting average with 17 home runs and 20 stolen bases this season, as reported by CubsHQ.
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His June performance included 10 home runs across 25 games, tying him for the third-most home runs in the majors over the last 30 days, according to Bleacher Report.
Derby Format Changes
The 2026 Home Run Derby features a structural change, transitioning to streaming on Netflix.
It replaces the traditional time clock with a static limit of 20 swings in the opening round and 15 swings in subsequent rounds.
Tampa Bay third baseman Junior Caminero, tied for fifth in the majors with 22 home runs, remains the only player confirmed for the event.
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League leaders like Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber, with 30 home runs, have yet to join.
