Canada Sport News

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays is prepared for his return to third base

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays is prepared for his return to third base

June 2, 2024

TORONTO – Vladimir Guerrero Jr. takes groundballs at third base regularly during the off-season and while it’s also a regular part of his pre-game work in-season, he began doing so more intently over the past couple of weeks.

“You have to be prepared to play defence. Be ready no matter where you play,” the Toronto Blue Jays first baseman explained. “I have to do it just in case of a day like today.”

Today is Sunday, and the case is Guerrero’s first big-league start at third base since Sept. 27, 2019. The Blue Jays moved the three-time All-Star across the diamond during training camp ahead of the 2020 pandemic season and he’s played there just twice since, covering two innings in 2021 and two innings in 2022.

He found out about the start on his way out of the clubhouse after Saturday’s 8-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

“I said, ‘I’m ready. I’m ready for everything,’” Guerrero relayed.

Whether this is a one-off or part of a longer-term plan wasn’t immediately clear. Guerrero said he didn’t know if the switch would be for longer than one game, and manager John Schneider doesn’t do pre-game media on Sundays.

But if the Blue Jays did want to make this a regular alignment, Guerrero is willing.

“Yeah,” he said. “If they need me for a long time at third, I’m going to be at third. If they don’t need me for a long time, I’m going to be at first again. Right now I feel good. If they need me catching, I don’t know if I can do that, but I’ll do everything for my team.”

After spending the majority of the 2021 season as the designated hitter for the Toronto Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is ready to make his return to third base for the upcoming season. The young slugger has been working diligently in the offseason to improve his defensive skills and ensure that he is prepared for the challenges that come with playing the hot corner.

Guerrero, who is known for his powerful bat and impressive offensive numbers, has always been a versatile player capable of playing multiple positions. However, he has expressed a desire to return to third base, where he feels most comfortable and where he believes he can make the biggest impact on the team.

In order to prepare for his return to third base, Guerrero has been working with the Blue Jays’ coaching staff to refine his defensive skills and improve his footwork and agility. He has also been focusing on his conditioning and strength training in order to ensure that he is physically prepared for the demands of playing in the field.

Guerrero’s dedication to improving his defense has not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaches, who have been impressed by his work ethic and commitment to becoming a better all-around player. Manager Charlie Montoyo has expressed confidence in Guerrero’s ability to excel at third base and believes that he will be a key contributor to the team’s success in the upcoming season.

With Guerrero’s return to third base, the Blue Jays will have a potent lineup that features some of the most exciting young talent in baseball. Guerrero’s presence in the infield will provide a boost to the team’s defense and give them a solid foundation to build upon as they look to compete for a playoff spot in the highly competitive American League East.

Overall, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s return to third base is a promising development for the Toronto Blue Jays and their fans. With his improved defensive skills and continued offensive prowess, Guerrero is poised to make a significant impact on the team and help lead them to success in the upcoming season.