Rays' Junior Caminero provides late-game insurance in thrilling win over Blue Jays

After dropping four of their previous six contests, the Rays were in desperate need of a great start against the division rival Blue Jays. Tampa Bay has experienced plenty of success against their Canadian foes, sweeping them in one of their last series of the 2024 season. However, this year's club has certainly looked stronger than the year prior, as they held an even 20-20 record going into the series in Toronto. A hard-fought exhibition was inevitable.

The Rays struck first in the third inning which was a rare occurrence for their struggling offense. Jose Berrios was clearly off his game last night, resulting in a Brandon Lowe 2-run single and a Jonathan Aranda 2-run home run shortly afterwards.

Toronto responded right away with home runs of their own from Bo Bichette (3rd inning) and Daulton Varsho (4th inning). Former Blue Jays backstop Danny Jansen collected a home run of his own against his former club to give the Rays some cushion heading into the bottom of the 7th.

The bullpen didn't give the Rays any favors last night as they allowed the Blue Jays to creep back in and eventually claim their first lead of the game in the bottom of the 8th. Scuffling reliever Edwin Uceta got into trouble and then gave up a massive home run to scalding hot slugger Daulton Varsho. It was Varsho's second blast of the game and it couldn't have come at a better time.

The Rays' lineup didn't stress over this lead change. They were able to put together quality at-bats against All-Star closer Jeff Hoffman until Chandler Simpson got up to bat with men on the corners. The speedy contact hitter slapped a base-hit up the middle to tie the game at sevens runs a piece.

Another dangerous hitter stepped up to the plate later in the inning with the bases loaded. Junior Caminero unloaded on a hanging slider, depositing it well over the left field fence in fair territory. Tampa Bay took an 11-7 lead on one swing and would hold on to an 11-9 slugfest victory.

Opening Day starter Ryan Pepiot will take the mound tonight against veteran starting pitcher Chris Bassitt. It should be another fun one between two talented AL East squads.