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Harper first-time participant in Home Run Derby

Nationals star joins Wright, CarGo, Cuddyer on National League squad

PHILADELPHIA -- Bryce Harper was voted into a starting role at this year's All-Star Game, and eyes will also be on the 20-year-old Nationals outfielder the night before at Citi Field.

It was announced Monday that Harper will compete in the 2013 Chevrolet Home Run Derby, which will be held July 15. This will be the first time that Harper, who was also an All-Star last season, will participate in the event.

Harper has 13 home runs this year and hit 22 long balls last season when he was named the National League Rookie of the Year. He joins David Wright, Michael Cuddyer and Carlos Gonzalez as the NL participants.

Starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann is currently the Nationals' only other All-Star, while shortstop Ian Desmond is on the NL ballot for the 2013 All-Star Game Final Vote sponsored by freecreditscore.com.

The 2013 Home Run Derby -- part of Gatorade All-Star Workout Day -- will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN HD, ESPN Deportes and ESPN Radio in the United States beginning at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, July 15. In Canada, the Derby will be televised by Rogers Sportsnet.

Fans can also download the official MLB.com Home Run Derby Game, featuring 24 sluggers from the 2010-12 Home Run Derby events. Connect and challenge gamers on the worldwide leaderboards. Available for free in the Apple App Store: atmlb.com/12S7nch

The 84th All-Star Game will be televised nationally on Tuesday, July 16 at 7:30 p.m. ET by FOX Sports, in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS, and worldwide by partners in more than 200 countries via MLB International's independent feed. ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide national radio coverage of the All-Star Game. MLB Network and SiriusXM also will also provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage. For more information, please visit allstargame.com.

Stephen Pianovich is an associate reporter for MLB.com.
Read More: Washington Nationals, Bryce Harper