Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong confirmed he won't participate in next month's Home Run Derby in Philadelphia, declining the invitation for a second straight year. The 24-year-old said the timing isn't right just yet, though he hopes to take part someday.

Despite sitting out the Derby, Crow-Armstrong has legitimate power credentials. He ranked third in the National League with 10 home runs in June while posting a .372 on-base percentage, a significant jump from last season's .287 mark. His 1.243 OPS entering Tuesday's action makes him a strong candidate for player of the month honors.

Crow-Armstrong's surge coincides with Chicago's best stretch in baseball. The Cubs sit 13-4 over their last 17 games, the top record in MLB during that span. Meanwhile, right-hander Jameson Taillon threw 40 pitches in live batting practice Tuesday and is scheduled for a minor league rehab start this weekend.

Taillon, who owns a 5.19 ERA in 13 starts this season, could return right before or after the All-Star break. The Cubs have been actively bolstering their pitching staff through waiver claims and trades, acquiring lefty David Peterson last week while re-signing Drew Pomeranz.