Junior Caminero Leaves All-Star Game After Pitch Hit

Injury Occurs in Third Inning

Junior Caminero exited Tuesday night’s All-Star contest after a 98‑mph pitch from Cardinals closer Riley O’Brien struck his left hand on the outside edge. The right‑hander crumpled briefly, then rose and headed straight for the clubhouse. X‑rays were taken to assess the damage.

St. Louis advanced to a 3‑0 lead when the pitch was delivered in the top of the third inning. The Rays’ third baseman did not return to the field and was replaced by Chicago White Sox infielder Miguel Vargas. The exact severity of the injury has not been disclosed beyond the imaging.

Statistical Snapshot of a Rising Star

Caminero entered the game having blasted 17 home runs in the Home Run Derby just the night before. He posted a 45‑home‑run, 110‑RBI campaign for Tampa Bay last season and is currently helping the Rays sit atop the AL East. His .250 average and 28 home runs this year place him among the league’s elite power hitters.

The All‑Star appearance marked Caminero’s second straight start for the American League squad, a first for any Ray. He batted fourth and grounded out against Phillies ace Cristopher Sánchez in his lone plate appearance.

What the Subtraction Means for Tampa Bay

With Caminero out of the lineup, the Rays will need to lean on their depth at third base and adjust their offensive flow for the remaining games. Miguel Vargas’ insertion provides a familiar face from the White Sox system, offering defensive reliability and a modest power threat. The team’s pursuit of a division title will hinge on how quickly the junior infielder recovers and returns to form.

• Junior Caminero – 28 HRs, 4th in the majors (this season)
• Riley O’Brien – 98 mph pitch that hit Caminero
• Miguel Vargas – Replacement, White Sox infielder

The Rays will monitor the hand injury closely, and the All‑Star break now serves as a pivotal pause for both player recovery and roster evaluation before the stretch drive.