What happened: Fangraphs data shows Junior Caminero has cut his out-of-zone swing rate three seasons running, from 35.4% in 2024 to 32.2% in 2025 to 28.3% in 2026. Over the same span his rate of hard contact has climbed sharply, from 29.1% to 38.4% to 45.4%. He turns 23 on Sunday and is within range of his 100th career home run this season.
Why it matters: The twin trends point to a maturing hitter: more selective at the plate while doing more damage on the balls he does hit. Reaching 100 home runs before his mid-20s would put Junior Caminero among the game's most precocious power threats and underscore why his bat is drawing steady attention.
By the numbers: Out-of-zone swing rate: 35.4% (2024), 32.2% (2025), 28.3% (2026). Hard-contact rate: 29.1% (2024), 38.4% (2025), 45.4% (2026).
What to watch: Watch whether Caminero clears the 100-homer milestone and holds the improved plate discipline through the second half.