Junior Caminero's hand X-rays negative after All-Star

Tampa Bay Rays star Junior Caminero suffered a scare during the 2026 MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday night, July 14, but received encouraging news after initial X-rays on his left hand came back negative. The 23-year-old third baseman was hit by a pitch in the third inning of the exhibition at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia and was forced to exit the game.

The incident occurred during Caminero's second at-bat when he was struck by a 98 mph sinker from St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Riley O'Brien. Caminero immediately fell to the ground in visible pain, with his helmet coming off. After remaining on the ground for several moments, he rose and jogged off the field under his own power. Miguel Vargas of the Chicago White Sox entered the game as a pinch-runner.

Broadcast reports later confirmed that X-rays taken at the ballpark showed no fracture. Analyst Tom Verducci relayed the news on the Fox broadcast, stating the results were good. Caminero himself later provided reassurance through a reporter, saying, "I'm fine. Thank God nothing is broken. Will play Friday." This indicates he expects to be ready for the Rays' first game after the All-Star break.