Why Willson Contreras is Swinging a 'Bowser' Bat in 2026 MLB Home Run Derby

Jul 13, 2026 - 19:30

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Why Willson Contreras is Swinging a 'Bowser' Bat in 2026 MLB Home Run Derby originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Willson Contreras is hoping to put on a show to represent the Boston Red Sox well at the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby in Philadelphia.

He'll be doing it with a special bat modeled after the video game character Bowser.

Bowser is one of the villains in the Mario series -- he's an evil, turtle-like creature who steals Princess Peach.

He also makes for quite the colorful bat in Contreras' hands.

MORE: This is who is pitching to Willson Contreras in the Home Run Derby

Why is Willson Contreras swinging a 'Bowser' bat?

Contreras has had the nickname Bowser since he played for the St. Louis Cardinals.

He's a big, stocky fella -- and he doesn't lack for intensity.

It pairs well with Bowser, and so he's got this bat ready to go:

Willson Contreras will be using a Bowser-themed bat for the Home Run Derby

It’s been his nickname since playing for the Cardinals and it continued with the Red Sox

He was given it because of his physical resemblance to Bowser and his fiery on-field intensity

📸 @TheBeatwriter pic.twitter.com/C27rfMeeHg
— Jake Iggy (@JakeIggy) July 13, 2026

MORE: Full list of Boston Red Sox 2026 MLB Draft picks

It's always fun to see what hitters do with their opportunities to add some flash to their setup at the plate.

During the MLB season, Contreras wouldn't be allowed to swing a bat like this. But in the Derby? It's totally allowed, and it's awesome.

Contreras will just be hoping it also packs some serious pop in it to give him a chance to try and win the whole thing.