The Boston Red Sox may have to deal with one of baseball's brightest young stars for a long time if he gets his wish.
Third baseman Junior Caminero told reporters, via MLB Network, that he's interested in discussing a long-term extension to stay with the Tampa Bay Rays. The 22-year-old didn't clarify whether he and the team have engaged in any conversations.
"I'd like to, but this is not my decision," Caminero said. "I feel this is my city, Tampa. I love Tampa, but this is not my decision. I'll control what I control. Just go play, have fun."
Caminero instantly established himself as a fierce slugger by belting 45 home runs in his first full MLB season. The All-Star batted .264/.311/.535 in 154 games and finished ninth in the American League MVP voting.
Never big spenders, the Rays have typically struggled to keep homegrown stars. But there's precedent for them locking down a budding phenom at the hot corner, as they extended third baseman Evan Longoria days after his MLB debut in 2008.
Caminero remains under contract through 2031, so the Rays may not be in any rush to give him a new deal. The organization often trades established players before they can hit the open market, but spending patterns could potentially change under new ownership.
Hearing Caminero's comments, the Rays can attempt to follow the Red Sox's lead and keep a possible franchise cornerstone around past his arbitration years. Boston extended Kristian Campbell at the start of the 2025 season and gave Roman Anthony an eight-year deal in August.
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