In an offseason featuring challenging stadium issues and few notable roster improvements, there actually has been some encouraging news for the Rays.
Third baseman Junior Caminero is putting on quite a show in the Dominican league, hitting .432 through his first 21 games and piling up praise.
Albert Pujols Praises Caminero’s Performance
Most notably from his Escogido manager, who knows a bit about hitting — Albert Pujols.
Caminero Receives Recognition
“The energy that Junior Caminero brings is incredible. For his age (21), he is a blessing. A future Hall of Famer, God willing,” Pujols told Dominican reporters last week.
Meeting with Dominican President
Caminero also visited the Rays academy to attend a high school graduation ceremony for players there.
Impressive Performance in League Semifinals
In his first 14 tournament games, Caminero hit .436 with a .475 on-base and .745 slugging percentage for a 1.221 OPS.
Manager’s Impression of Caminero
“He’s taken his offseason really serious, and we’re really proud of him for that,” Cash said.
“Also exciting, Cash said, was what he heard from Pujols, the three-time league MVP and 11-time All-Star.”
Future Expectations for Caminero
Caminero will stay with Escogido if the Leones reach the seven-game championship series but won’t go if they advance to the Jan. 31-Feb. 7 Caribbean Series in Mexico.
The Rays are counting on Caminero to be a key part of their lineup.
Rays Rumblings
Single-game tickets will be available sometime after the Feb. 15 Fan Fest. … The spring workout schedule will be pushed back a day due to an inadvertent conflict with CBA/union rules, so pitchers and catchers will have their first on-field session Feb. 12 and the full squad Feb. 17. … The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal wrote Friday that Stuart Sternberg’s team ownership “appears headed for a crossroads” …
Conclusion
In conclusion, Junior Caminero’s performance in the Dominican league has garnered praise from both his manager and baseball legend Albert Pujols, setting high expectations for his future with the Rays.
FAQs
Q: Will Caminero continue to play for Escogido?
A: Caminero will stay with Escogido depending on their progress in the championship series.
