From Fastball On SI · · 2m
Caminero's late surge threatens Alvarez's MVP lead
The Rays' 23-year-old slugger is closing the gap on Houston's Yordan Alvarez with two walk-off homers in four games.
In brief
The Rays' 23-year-old slugger is closing the gap on Houston's Yordan Alvarez with two walk-off homers in four games. Junior Caminero has positioned himself as a legitimate MVP contender by leading the AL in home runs while playing elite defense on a winning team. Originally reported by Fastball On SI.
Caminero's walk-off heroics continue
The 23-year-old Rays third baseman hit a walk-off solo shot Tuesday night, down 0-2 in the count, launching a 100.4 mph fastball over the right-field wall. This marks his second walk-off homer in four games.
Caminero clinched playoff spot Friday
Four days earlier, Caminero crushed a two-run blast to clinch Tampa Bay's playoff berth, showing up in the biggest moments of the season.
41 homers lead the American League
Caminero's latest long ball gives him 41 home runs this season, leading the AL. He's one of just three players with more than 40 homers in all of baseball.
Alvarez led MVP race most of season
Houston's Yordan Alvarez was the frontrunner for AL MVP through much of 2026, but has slowed since August with just four homers in 38 games.
Alvarez still leads in batting average
The 29-year-old Astros slugger maintains a .310 batting average, best in the AL, and ranks second in home runs and RBIs despite his recent power drought.
Caminero's stats stack up well
Caminero is hitting .279 with 41 homers and 96 RBIs, third-most in the AL. His offensive production rivals Alvarez's while playing daily defense at third base.
Team record could be deciding factor
Caminero produces for the AL's best team, while Alvarez plays for the Astros, who sit just one game over .500. Voters often weigh team success in MVP voting.
Defense gives Caminero an edge
Caminero mans third base every game, while Alvarez primarily serves as a designated hitter. Some voters may view daily defensive contributions as an MVP advantage.
Two-week battle looms for award
Caminero has closed the gap with Alvarez heading into the final two weeks of the regular season, setting up a thrilling finish to the 2026 MVP race.
At a glance
Junior Caminero has positioned himself as a legitimate MVP contender by leading the AL in home runs while playing elite defense on a winning team.
