Blue Jays make surprising change involving Vlad Guerrero Jr.
The Toronto Blue Jays made a decision that raised some eyebrows around MLB, and it involved the face of their franchise. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., widely regarded as both the team’s best hitter and a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman, was given…
The Toronto Blue Jays made a decision that raised some eyebrows around MLB , and it involved the face of their franchise. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. , widely regarded as both the team’s best hitter and a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman, was given what can only be described as a “half day off”—serving as the designated hitter while Kazuma Okamoto handled first base.
On the surface, it doesn’t sound like a big deal. But given the context, it felt… odd. MORE: San Diego Padres being sold for a jaw dropping, record breaking total A Strange Time to Ease Your Star Mar 21, 2026; Bradenton, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
(27) strikes out during the third inning ]against the Pittsburgh Pirates at LECOM Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images The Blue Jays aren’t cruising right now—they’re struggling. Between injuries piling up and a disappointing start to the 2026 season, this is a team searching for consistency and identity.
That’s what makes the decision to partially rest Guerrero stand out. When things aren’t going well, teams typically lean more on their stars, not less. More Than Just a Bat It’s easy to think of Guerrero primarily for his offense.