The Tampa Bay Rays secured a spot in the 2026 MLB postseason with a dramatic walk-off home run on Friday night. Slugger Junior Caminero hit a two-run homer to give the Rays a 3-1 victory over the Houston Astros at Tropicana Field, sealing their return to the playoffs after a two-year absence.
While the on-field celebration was standard, the post-game clubhouse festivities took an unexpected turn. Yandy Diaz, the team's All-Star designated hitter, was observed carrying and eating a tomahawk steak. When asked about the unusual snack, Diaz explained, “Protein … for my biceps.”
Diaz, a two-time All-Star, is having a strong season. Entering Saturday, he led the American League with 171 hits and posted a .303 batting average, .368 on-base percentage, and .467 slugging percentage. He has also hit 22 home runs, nearing his career best of 25 set last season.
The Rays' victory clinched their playoff berth, but their division title hopes remain active. With 88 wins, Tampa Bay held a three-game lead over the New York Yankees in the AL East division race entering Saturday. The two teams are scheduled to play a four-game series in the Bronx during the final week of the season, which could determine the division winner and playoff seeding.
"Look, the job’s not finished,” Diaz told reporters after the game. “We still have a big title in mind with winning the division.”