A new twist on a fan-favourite baseball event is coming to Victoria this summer, headlined by a recently retired Major League Baseball standout.
Former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar will be among the featured participants in the West Coast League (WCL) Home Run Derby, part of the 2026 WCL All-Star Game Festival set for July 14 to 15 at Wilson’s Group Stadium at Royal Athletic Park.
Pillar, 37, wrapped up a 13-season MLB career that included more than 1,200 games and 114 home runs, earning a reputation as a fan favourite during his time with the Toronto Blue Jays. Known for his highlight-reel defensive plays – which earned him the nickname “Superman” – Pillar is expected to bring both offence and defence to a reimagined version of the traditional home run derby.
The event will adopt the innovative “Home Run Derby X” format, marking the first time the concept has been used at a Canadian venue. Developed by Major League Baseball, the format adds a defensive component to the competition, allowing players in the field to earn points by making catches, including potential home run robberies, in designated zones.
The derby will feature a fast-paced, three-on-three structure played over three innings. Hitters will have two minutes and 30 seconds at the plate, aiming for both distance and accuracy by targeting bonus zones, while opposing players attempt to counter with defensive plays.
Event organizers say the format brings a new level of strategy and excitement to a traditionally offence-only showcase.
“This is all about the home runs, but the twists on defence make it an absolute blast – pardon the pun,” said All-Star Game co-chair Brenda MacFarlane in a release, adding that Pillar’s participation in a Blue Jays uniform will be a major draw for fans.
The Home Run Derby is scheduled for July 14, serving as a key opening event for the broader All-Star festival.
The following day will feature the WCL All-Star Game itself, highlighting top players from across the league.
READ MORE: HarbourCats dubbed back-to-back All-Star games host for 2026 and 2027
