Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Exits Game Early with Hamstring Tightness

On Monday night, Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left the game with hamstring tightness in the fifth inning during a 5-2 loss to Pittsburgh. His departure followed a pair of impressive defensive plays that showcased his agility and skill on the field.

Guerrero showcased his flexibility by doing the splits twice at first base to make difficult catches, including a remarkable pick off a long throw by shortstop Bo Bichette to retire Jared Triolo in the third inning. Despite returning to play in the fourth, Guerrero was ultimately replaced by Ty France in the top of the fifth when his turn in the batting order came up.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider provided an update on Guerrero’s condition, stating that an MRI was scheduled to assess the extent of the injury. “It was after that stretch, obviously,” Schneider explained. “At this time of year, everyone is kind of grinding a little bit, and that just irritated his hammy. It’s just tightness.”

Although Guerrero expressed a desire to continue playing in the fourth inning to evaluate his discomfort, the decision was made to remove him from the game as a precautionary measure. “I trust him, and he knows himself really well,” Schneider emphasized. “We can’t afford to lose him for an extended period of time, so it was partially precautionary, too. Hopefully, he’s good to go in the next day or two. He’s obviously really important to our lineup.”

With a batting average of .298, 21 home runs, and 69 RBIs this season, Guerrero has been a key player for the first-place Toronto Blue Jays. His health and recovery will be closely monitored to ensure his swift return to the lineup.