Astros third baseman Alex Bregman taking part in Home Run Derby

HOUSTON, TX - JULY 10: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros hits a home run in the seventh inning against the Oakland Athletics at Minute Maid Park on July 10, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman tells FOX 26 Sports that he will take part in the 2018 T-Mobile Home Run Derby on Monday, July 16 as part of MLB All-Star Game week.

"I'm fired up," said Bregman to FOX 26. "It was a dream and a goal to participate in the All-Star Game. I don't know if I'd say the Home Run Derby, being I'm 5'10", but hey, I've hit a few homers this year, so hopefully hit a few more in the Derby."

"I think it's going to be a blast to be able to hit in front of the fans in D.C. & hopefully represent the Astros well," added Bregman. "It's something you always watched as a kid. I couldn't let the opportunity pass."

Bregman is the first Astros player to take part in the Home Run Derby since Lance Berkman in 2008. He will face Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Schwarber in the opening round. Other participants include Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper, Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman, Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Jesus Aguilar, Cubs second baseman Javier Baez, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Rhys Hoskins and Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy.