Photo via MLB.com

Take your time, Junior! Caminero savors clutch first HR of postseason

Junior Caminero finally broke through in the postseason with a dramatic two-run home run in the seventh inning of Game 6 of the ALCS, capping a 7-3 Rays victory that clinched their first World Series berth. The All-Star third baseman, who had gone hitless in his first 34 postseason at-bats since 2023 despite hitting 42 regular-season homers, crushed a first-pitch splitter from Cade Smith into the left-field foul pole at Tropicana Field.

His leisurely 38.66-second trot around the bases—marked by chest-pounding celebrations and a playful nod to teammate Randy Arozarena’s iconic pose—became the second-slowest under Statcast since 2015, cementing the moment as one of the most memorable in Tampa Bay’s postseason run.

Caminero’s home run not only expanded the Rays’ lead to 5-1 but also showcased his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. The swing came after a season-long postseason drought, reinforcing his reputation as a clutch performer.

His deliberate pace around the bases, including a 13.23-second first-leg run, added to the theatrics of a night already packed with historic significance for the franchise.

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