Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero is in the starting lineup for Game 5 of the World Series against the Milwaukee Brewers despite suffering a foot injury the previous night. Manager Kevin Cash confirmed that the 42-homer slugger is fine to play as Tampa Bay attempts to stave off elimination, trailing the series 3-1 at Tropicana Field.
Game 4 Incidents and Injury Details
Caminero aggravated his left foot during the 12th inning of Game 4 after beating out an errant throw on a routine ground ball. Despite pulling up noticeably limping at first base, he remained on the field and advanced from first to third base on a single by Liam Hicks before being replaced by pinch-runner Cedric Mullins.
Cash commended the base-running effort, noting that he delayed substituting Caminero until he reached scoring position due to limited bench options. “Really impressive that he went first and third right there, very instinctual play,” Cash said. Ben Williamson subsequently delivered a walk-off single to seal a 4-3 victory for Tampa Bay.
Caminero Commitment and Pitching Matchup
Speaking after Game 4, Caminero explained through an interpreter that his foot has bothered him for roughly three months, though he did not disclose a specific medical diagnosis. He emphasized his intention to remain on the field regardless of the pain.
“If my foot is broken,” Caminero said, “I’ll play tomorrow.”
Cash noted that physical wear is common at this stage of the postseason. “He’s been dealing with some lower extremity injuries, but there’s a lot of guys that are nicked up right now playing through a lot,” Cash said. “(I) know that Cammy will be ready to go today.”
Caminero, who posted 42 home runs and 101 RBIs during the regular season, serves as a crucial power source against Milwaukee ace Jacob Misiorowski, who led the major leagues with a 1.80 ERA and 252 strikeouts. Pitcher Drew Rasmussen takes the mound for Tampa Bay on short rest.
The Rays’ Game 5 order features Yandy Díaz at designated hitter, Jonathan Aranda at first base, Caminero at third base, Hicks catching, Jonny DeLuca in center field, Chandler Simpson in left field, Williamson at second base, Ryan Vilade in right field, and Taylor Walls at shortstop.
