Rays near All-Star break looking like a contender

The American League-leading Rays look like a contender built around a full-fledged superstar as they roll toward next week's All-Star break.

Why it matters: This season has been a huge — and unexpected —turnaround following two straight losing seasons.

• That it comes as the team is jockeying for $1 billion in public funding is fortuitous timing for the team's new ownership group.

The latest: The Rays lost to the Yankees on Thursday afternoon, completing a 2-2 home series against their chief division rivals.

• They host the AL West-leading Seattle Mariners for three games starting Friday, then cruise into the break.

What's working: First and foremost, Junior Caminero.

• The somehow-just-23-year-old third baseman has 26 home runs (a top-five figure across MLB) and at one point hit 11 in 11 games.
• Joining Caminero on the AL All-Star team are designated hitter Yandy Diaz, starter Drew Rasmussen and reliever Bryan Baker.

Causes for concern: The offense is very stars-and-scrubs, relying heavily on Caminero, Diaz and Jonathan Aranda for runs.

• Slumps or injuries for any of that trio could leave the Rays vulnerable.

• The Rays also lack depth at starting pitcher, but...

The intrigue: ... rumor has it they're among the teams that could trade for Detroit ace Tarik Skubal, who's widely expected to be dealt soon.

• Skubal, the best pitcher on the market, would come at a high price but solidify the Rays as a World Series contender.
• Other potential trade targets include Giants second baseman Luis Arráez and Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña.

What's next: After the Seattle series, watch Caminero and his teammates in the All-Star Game, 8pm Tuesday on Fox.