Tampa Bay Rays’ powerhouse hitter Junior Kaminero announced on Wednesday that he will participate in the Home Run Derby taking place on Monday in Atlanta. Just hours later, he was also named the starting third baseman for the American League in the All-Star Game scheduled for the following night.
In a recent game in Detroit, Kaminero hit his 22nd home run of the season, helping the Rays to a 7-3 win over seven innings. Having just turned 22 on July 5th, Kaminero is currently leading all American League third basemen in home runs during this breakout season, batting .254 with 58 RBIs. The Rays are now just four games behind the AL East leaders, Toronto Blue Jays.
“I’m looking forward to putting on a show and allowing fans to see my power. Just being among all the All-Stars will be very special,” Kaminero said.
Kaminero is the sixth player confirmed for the Home Run Derby, joining Mariners’ Callowry, Nationals’ James Wood, Twins’ Byron Buxton, Pirates’ Onile Cruz, and Ronaldor Coona Jr. Two more participants are yet to be announced, and Buxton’s participation is uncertain after being hit in the left hand during a game on Wednesday night.
New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., also headed for the All-Star Game, expressed interest in joining the Derby if invited. Chisholm has hit 17 home runs this season and recently contributed two homers in a 9-6 victory over Seattle.
Kaminero was selected as an All-Star replacement for Boston’s Alex Bregman at third base. He will start at the hot corner to allow him to rest his injured Achilles tendon, following Cleveland’s Jose Ramirez’s decision to skip the All-Star Game. Houston Astros’ Isaac Paredes will replace Ramirez on the AL roster.
Other Rays players who have taken part in the Home Run Derby in the past include Evan Longoria, Carlo Spena, and Landia Rozarena.
Rays Manager Kevin Cash praised Kaminero, saying, “You can see him hitting home runs every time he practices. I’m thrilled for him and his family. This is a coming-out party for him, and hopefully, he realizes the talent we all saw in him to hit the ball far.”
— Report by Associated Press
Fan Take: Junior Kaminero’s rising star status and breakout season highlight the fresh talent energizing baseball today. His participation in the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game not only excites fans but signals a promising future for the sport with young players making a significant impact.
