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Caminero Blasts Rays to Playoffs, Makes History
27 Sep
Summary
- Junior Caminero is the first Rays player with multiple 40+ home run seasons.
- His walk-off homer clinched a playoff spot for the Rays on Sept. 11.
- Caminero achieved his second straight 40+ home run season in 2026.
Junior Caminero continues to make history for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2026. He is the first player in franchise history to achieve multiple seasons with over 40 home runs. This remarkable feat was highlighted on September 11 when his 40th home run of the season was a walk-off, clinching a playoff spot for the team.
The Rays have had a dominant season, becoming the first team to clinch a playoff spot. They have also secured the AL East title for the fifth time in franchise history and earned the No. 1 seed in the American League. Caminero's powerful offensive contributions have been a key factor in their success throughout the year.
Earlier in the season, Caminero set another record by becoming the youngest player since 1900 to hit a home run in six consecutive games. He also started in his second consecutive All-Star Game, a first for any Tampa Bay player. His improved on-base percentage, stemming from increased walks and better strike zone awareness, complements his impressive power, as seen in his .275/.359/.520 slash line with 41 home runs and 99 RBI through 160 games.
