The 2026 T-Mobile Home Run Derby is set to be a spectacle, with eight baseball powerhouses competing for the title. But who are the pitchers these sluggers will be relying on? From family members to coaches, these pitchers play a pivotal role in the Derby, providing the crucial support needed for the participants to perform at their best. Let's take a closer look at the eight pitchers who will be there to support the stars of the show.
The Coaches and Family Members
Tomas Francisco: The Veteran Coach
Tomas Francisco, a fourth-year coach on Kevin Cash's staff, is no stranger to the Home Run Derby. He was Randy Arozarena's pitcher during their runner-up finish in 2023 and was also on the mound for Junior Caminero when he finished second to Cal Raleigh last year. Francisco is determined to win it all this time, and Caminero immediately identified him as his pitcher when he announced his return to the Derby. This is a testament to Francisco's skill and experience, and it's fascinating to see how he can adapt his pitching style to suit different sluggers.
Dan Rice: The Father-Son Duo
Dan Rice, a pitcher on Brown University's baseball team in the 1980s, has been a constant source of support for his son Ben. They have a unique father-son dynamic, with Dan providing batting practice and fine-tuning Ben's swing. This is a beautiful example of how family can play a significant role in an athlete's development and performance. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best support comes from those closest to you.
Willson Contreras: The Former Cubs Companion
Willson Contreras and Willson Flores have a long-standing relationship dating back to their time together with the Cubs in 2013. Flores, who started the season as Boston's first base coach and infield instructor, moved to interim bench coach in late April. He will be throwing to Contreras, and his experience and familiarity with the slugger will be invaluable. This is a great example of how relationships built on trust and experience can lead to success in the Derby.
The Personal Connections
Jac Caglianone: The Family Connection
Jac Caglianone has always relied on his dad, Jeff, as his main BP thrower in the offseason. There was no question who would throw to Jac when he was asked to participate in his first Derby. This is a heartwarming story of a father-son bond, and it's fascinating to see how personal connections can influence an athlete's decision-making process. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best support comes from those closest to you.
Jordan Walker: The Familiarity Factor
Jordan Walker's pitcher, Kleininger Teran, is a longtime bullpen catcher for the Cardinals. Teran threw to Albert Pujols in the 2022 Derby, helping guide him to the semifinals. Walker chose Teran because of their familiarity, and it's fascinating to see how personal connections can influence an athlete's decision-making process. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best support comes from those who know you best.
The Professional Relationships
Ron Harper: The Former Derby Champion
Ron Harper, Harper's father, threw to him in 2018 when he won the Home Run Derby with the Nationals at Nationals Park. However, Ron hasn't thrown in a few years, so he needed to find somebody else. He chose Ebel, who grooved three pitches to Kyle Schwarber during the tie-breaking swing-off at the 2025 All-Star Game in Atlanta. This is a great example of how professional relationships can lead to success in the Derby.
Kyle Schwarber: The Familiarity Factor
Kyle Schwarber spends loads of time in the batting cage at Citizens Bank Park and elsewhere. He knows Pena can throw him pitches where he wants. This is a testament to the power of familiarity and the importance of finding the right support for your performance. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best support comes from those who know you best.
The Rising Stars
Mune Murakami: The Healthy Return
Mune Murakami, an All-Star, was out for 35 games due to a Grade 2 right hamstring strain and the ensuing recovery. However, he has now returned to action on July 10 and is ready to go. This is a great example of how resilience and determination can lead to success in the Derby. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best support comes from those who overcome adversity.
In conclusion, the 2026 T-Mobile Home Run Derby is set to be a spectacle, with eight baseball powerhouses competing for the title. The pitchers who will be supporting these sluggers play a pivotal role in the Derby, providing the crucial support needed for the participants to perform at their best. From coaches and family members to personal connections and professional relationships, these pitchers are a testament to the power of support and the importance of finding the right people to help you achieve your goals.
