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Guerrero Jr. returns to first base and Vogelbach bats cleanup against Orioles

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Guerrero Jr. returns to first base and Vogelbach bats cleanup against Orioles

June 3, 2024

The experiment of having Vladimir Guerrero Jr. play third base won’t play out for a second game in a row.

While the Toronto Blue Jays said after Sunday’s game Guerrero Jr. will play some more third base on occasion, he’s back to his usual spot at first base for Monday’s series opener against the visiting Baltimore Orioles.

Guerrero Jr. started at third for the first time since 2019 in Sunday’s win against the Pittsburgh Pirates, allowing Toronto to add a potential dangerous bat to the lineup.

It worked out well with the surging Daniel Vogelbach playing DH and notching a two-run double.

Vogelbach remains at DH on Monday and moves up to the cleanup spot, ahead of Bo Bichette.

Kevin Gausman throws the first pitch for the Blue Jays, who have won five of their six against a pair of under-.500 teams in the Chicago White Sox and Pirates.

The degree of difficulty increases dramatically against the Orioles (37-20), who hold down the first wild-card spot in the AL.

Watch the Blue Jays-Orioles game at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet or Sportsnet+.

In a surprising lineup change, Toronto Blue Jays’ star third baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will be returning to first base for the upcoming game against the Baltimore Orioles. This move comes as a bit of a shock to fans and analysts alike, as Guerrero Jr. has been a standout player at the hot corner this season.

The decision to move Guerrero Jr. to first base is likely a strategic one by manager Charlie Montoyo, as it allows the team to get slugger Daniel Vogelbach into the lineup as the cleanup hitter. Vogelbach, who was acquired by the Blue Jays in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers earlier this season, has been swinging a hot bat and providing some much-needed power in the middle of the lineup.

Having Guerrero Jr. at first base also gives the Blue Jays more flexibility defensively, as they can now move versatile infielder Cavan Biggio back to third base. This move could help shore up the defense on the left side of the infield and give the Blue Jays a stronger overall defensive alignment.

While some fans may be disappointed to see Guerrero Jr. move away from third base, it’s important to remember that he is a talented and versatile player who can excel at multiple positions. His bat will still be a major factor in the lineup, regardless of where he plays defensively.

As for Vogelbach batting cleanup, this move could pay dividends for the Blue Jays as they look to continue their push for a playoff spot. Vogelbach has shown that he has the ability to hit for power and drive in runs, making him a valuable asset in the heart of the lineup.

Overall, this lineup change shows that the Blue Jays are willing to make bold moves in order to put their best team on the field. With Guerrero Jr. at first base and Vogelbach batting cleanup, the Blue Jays will be looking to generate some offense and secure a much-needed win against the Orioles.