Junior Caminero exits All-Star Game after getting hit on hand in scary scene

Rays fans can catch their breath — for now.

Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero exited Tuesday night’s All-Star Game in the top of the third inning after getting drilled on the left hand on a pitch from Cardinals right-hander Riley O’Brien.

Immediately after being hit with a 98-mph fastball from O’Brien, Caminero fell to the ground as his helmet also came off. 

Caminero remained on the ground in pain before popping up shortly after and walking off under his own power. 

Tom Verducci reported on Fox that initial X-rays came back negative, a good sign for the Rays.

Miguel Vargas of the White Sox came on to pinch-run for Caminero at first base after he was hit. 

The Rays lead the AL East at 56-38 despite low expectations entering the season, and part of that reason is because of Caminero. 

American League All-Stars third baseman Junior Caminero (13) of the Tampa Bay Rays is hit by a pitch in the third inning of the All-Star Game on July 14, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Caminero has been their offensive engine, as he’s hit 28 home runs and has a .927 OPS through 94 games. 

The 23-year-old also took part in Monday night’s Home Run Derby and fell to eventual winner Jordan Walker in the semifinals.