With his usual smile and a speech marked by humility, Junior Caminero You do not doubt a second when the tricolor shirt is mentioned: “I will never tell the Dominican Republic.” The young player from the Tampa Bay Rays, considered one of the greatest Dominican promises of the greatest projection in MLBreaffirms its willingness to represent the country in the next World Baseball Classicalthough he acknowledges that he has not yet been formally contacted.
“No, but of course, I will never tell the Dominican Republic that no. And I know my roles, I know there are many easels above me,” he continued. “While giving me that opportunity to put on my jacket, (Albert) Pujols and the staff, I’m going to be there so giving water to the ‘tigers’,
Aware of the weight involved in representing his nation, Junior knows that every turn of the bat and every play in the diamond are showcases that bring him closer to the supreme honor: dressing the Dominican flannel in the maximum scenario of international baseball.
His answer not only evidenced commitment, but also maturity to understand his place within a national team full of stars.
The World Classic remains an objective for many Dominican players, and although the final roster is far from defining, Caminero is clear that it would be available to assume the role they assign. Either as a batter, banking player or even simply supporting the group.
As for its current season on MLB, Caminero prefers to keep your feet on the ground. “I feel good, health is the important thing, I feel pretty good,” he said, stressing that his main goal for this year is to stay healthy. “Health, health, health and continue contributing to the team,” he repeated almost like a mantra.
The atmosphere at the Rays Clubhouse has also been key to its evolution as a baseball player. Caminero highlights the influence of the most experienced players in their development within the team. “The veterans, like Yandy (Díaz), all those are always with,” he explained, who at the time of writing this article had 14 home runs in the campaign, 38 towed and an OPS of .811.
As the season progresses, Caminero continues to win a place in the big leagues, but without losing sight of the pride of dressing the colors of his country. For now, he keeps his focus on Tampa, but with his heart put in the possibility of representing Dominican when the call arrives.
