Harper will take part in Home Run Derby if he’s an all-star

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Washington Nationals right-fielder Bryce Harper. (Susan Walsh/AP)

WASHINGTON — Slugger Bryce Harper will participate in the Home Run Derby if he makes the National League All-Star team.

On Friday afternoon the Washington Nationals tweeted: "tfw Bryce announces he’ll do the MLB HR Derby if he makes the NL All-Star team…" accompanied by a GIF of Harper celebrating in the dugout.

The All-Star Game will be held July 17 at Nationals Park.

The 25-year-old Harper is second in the voting among National League outfielders behind Nick Markakis of the Braves. The top three in the voting will be starters.

Despite being in a slump that has dropped his average to .213, Harper entered play Friday leading the National League in home runs (19) and walks (55), and stood 10th in RBIs (45).

Harper last participated in the derby in 2013 at Citi Field in New York.

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