BALTIMORE -- Gunnar Henderson is headed to the Home Run Derby.

The Baltimore shortstop is the first player to be announced as a participant in this year's event.

"Watching it as a kid growing up, just obviously something that seemed like it'd be pretty cool, and to have that opportunity is pretty special," Henderson said. "So I'm looking forward to it."

After winning AL Rookie of the Year honors last season, Henderson is an MVP candidate this year for the AL East-leading Orioles. He has 26 homers, tied for second in the major leagues behind Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees.

Henderson also leads the majors with eight leadoff homers, five behind Alfonso Soriano's big league record.

The Derby is July 15, part of All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field in Texas.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.