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Phillies’ Bryce Harper drops intriguing ‘aluminum bat’ Home Run Derby idea
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- Phillies’ Bryce Harper drops intriguing ‘aluminum bat’ Home Run Derby idea
Phillies' Bryce Harper drops intriguing 'aluminum bat' Home Run Derby idea appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper is a future Hall of Famer and one of the best left-handed hitters of his generation, but he is also one heck of a showman. Fittingly born in Las Vegas, Nevada, the fiery competitor has exuded passion and swagger since he entered professional baseball as a teenage phenom back in 2010. Although he is polarizing — jut look at the latest FanDuel controversy — Harper prides himself on giving fans an exciting performance.
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While representing the Washington Nationals at the 2018 Home Run Derby , the fearless slugger captivated the home crowd in Washington D.C. with a furious rally to stun future teammate Kyle Schwarber in the championship round. He is hoping to produce similar fireworks while competing for the Phillies in Citizens Bank park on July 13, but before he chases another title, Harper is making a suggestion on how to add even more pizazz to the annual event.
The two-time National League MVP believes that participants should be allowed to use aluminum bats when the gold balls are introduced at the end of each round, per ESPN's Buster Olney. Fans would surely marvel at this blazing projectile, and then they would say their prayers.
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Such an innovation definitely packs the wow factor that people expect from the Derby, but it is hard to imagine MLB giving the thumbs up sign. Safety would be a serious concern. Perhaps the league can take measures to protect the fans, but what about the little kids who are sprinting to retrieve fly balls during the competition?
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Unless the outfield is empty and a net is guarding the first few rows behind the wall, this modification will likely not take effect. The original point stands, though. Bryce Harper is a performer who is trying to make a lasting impression on spectators.
The face of the Phillies, who is slashing .261/.367/.503/.870 with 20 dingers through 94 games, will play a weekend series versus the Detroit Tigers before seeking his second Home Run Derby crown on Monday night.
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Related: Phillies' Kyle Schwarber joining Bryce Harper in Philadelphia Home Run Derby
