Aug 4, 2020; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) signals to the cutout crowd before the game against Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hagy-USA TODAY Sports
Blue Jays infielder Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is making the most of his time in the Dominican Winter League, blasting pitches into space.
The best is yet to come for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and he’s not going to let you forget it this winter.
The Blue Jays’ third baseman got permission to participate in the Dominican Winter League. His debut on Friday night was electric.
It wasn’t long before Guerrero smacked his first home run for Escogido. He’d go on to hit another before the victory was sealed.
“Si senores, adios,” called the announcer. That about sums it up in any language.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is working on his fitness and fielding
One reason the Blue Jays let Guerrero go to play in the Dominican Winter League was to help keep him in shape. Weight had been an issue for the 21-year-old in 2020 but he committed to a new workout program and has shed some pounds. Toronto hopes to deploy him at third base in 2021 thanks to his slimmed-down physique.
Guerrero Jr. made his major league debut in 2019, hitting .272 with 15 home runs and 69 RBI. His sophomore campaign in 2020 was disrupted by COVID-19 but he was able to play the entire season. He managed just nine home runs and 33 RBI while hitting .262. He was also moved to first base, though he has made it his mission to return to third base this offseason. That’s where he’s playing with Escogido.
Baseball and will keep a close eye on his development throughout the winter, along with the plethora of young prospects looking to raise their profile in the winter leagues.
Guerrero Jr. is the son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero Sr., who had a heralded career with the Angels while also appearing for the Expos, Rangers and Orioles before retiring officially in 2014.