Bryce Harper to skip Home Run Derby

Washington Nationals slugger Bryce Harper will skip the Home Run Derby next week because his father is not available to pitch to him.

The outfielder's father, Ron Harper, is recovering from rotator cuff surgery after a snowboarding accident. Ron Harper pitched to his son in the 2013 derby when he finished second to Yoenis Cespedes.

"Not having Dad is a huge issue for me," Harper told reporters Monday.

The 22-year-old Harper, in his fourth season with the Nationals, has 25 home runs this season and is among the league leaders in almost every offensive category. He is hitting .347 with 60 RBIs, 61 walks and an on-base percentage of .474.

The Home Run Derby will be held next Monday at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. The All-Star Game will be played the following night.

Harper led all National League players in being voted to his third All-Star team, which was announced Sunday. He received almost 13.9 million votes. It is the second time he has been named a starter.

"I'm definitely excited," Harper said after the Nationals beat the San Francisco Giants 3-1 on Sunday night. "Being able to play alongside some of the best in baseball at the All-Star Game, hang out and just have a good time with everybody, it's definitely exciting. I'm very happy and very blessed to be part of it. I have to thank our fans and all the fans across the country who voted for me. Thanks for all the support."