MLB considering Home Run Derby with pitchers in 2017

Major League Baseball will consider letting pitchers compete in some form during the Home Run Derby next season.

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Major League Baseball is considering involving pitchers in the Home Run Derby next season, MLBPA executive director Tony Clark confirmed to ESPN on Monday. Giants pitcher Madison Bumgarner helped spur the consideration, as Bumgarner pushed to be involved in this year’s event.

Clark told ESPN’s Jayson Stark the league and players’ union will discuss pitchers competing in the Home Run Derby, either as part of the main event or in a separate competition for pitchers.

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MLB was unable to accommodate Bumgarner’s request for this season. Other pitchers—including the Marlins' Jose Fernandez, the Cubs' Jake Arrieta and the Cardinals' Adam Wainwright—also expressed interest in competing, but Bumgarner reportedly was only interested in participating with other batters.

Hitters were less interested in pitchers competing, with 2016 Derby champ Todd Fraizer saying he didn’t think it would be a good idea.

The 2017 Home Run Derby and All-Star Game will take place in Miami at Marlins Park.