What happened: Junior Caminero, who turns 23 on Sunday, has already drawn 47 walks this season — more than the 41 he collected across all of 2025. Albert Pujols stays in regular contact with the young infielder by text and phone, reinforcing the patient approach.

Why it matters: For a hitter this young, a climbing walk rate is one of the clearest signals of a maturing approach and often a leading indicator of durable production. The jump in free passes suggests the same Caminero who recently earned AL Player of the Week honors is refining his eye, not just his power. Veteran guidance from a hitter of Pujols's stature adds weight to that development curve.

What to watch: Watch whether the improved discipline holds as pitchers adjust and whether the higher on-base rate translates into more run production down the stretch.