Cubs star Kris Bryant says Home Run Derby is 'exhausting,' probably will skip it

It's becoming more and more common for sluggers to decline taking part in the Home Run Derby. Normally, hitters fear that the contest can ruin their swings, which can lead to a second-half slump.

But for Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant, his aversion to the derby has more to do with the amount of energy needed to compete.

"All I know is it was tough. It was very exhausting," Bryant said, via the Chicago Sun-Times. "And I don't know if I'd want to do it again. But if [the pitchers] want to, we'll let them do it. I don't really want to."

Bryant, who is tied for sixth in the NL with 15 homers, took part in the event last year, falling to Albert Pujols 10-9 in the first round.

Despite some full-time hitters hoping to sidestep the derby, some big-name hurlers want in. Giants lefty Madison Bumgarner and Cubs righty Jake Arrieta have both expressed interest in participating. But it's unclear if their respective teams would allow their aces to take part.