Toronto Baseball Insider has no direct affiliation to the Toronto Blue Jays or MLB

Toronto Blue Jays get update on Vladimir Guerrero Jr after he misses last game for the Dominican Republic


Victor William
Mar 10, 2026  (1:49 PM)
Dominican Republic first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) returns to the dugout against the Netherlands during the third inning at loanDepot Park.
Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. getting a scheduled day off at the World Baseball Classic sets the stage for massive upcoming performances.

Seeing his name absent from the starting lineup against Israel definitely caused a momentary panic across the fan base. We all want to watch our franchise superstar crush baseballs on the global stage.
But this strategic breather is actually brilliant news for his overall health and long-term stamina.
Guerrero completely torched opposing pitchers last season with a solid .292 AVG, 23 HR, and an .848 OPS.
He already launched two massive home runs in the opening games of this incredible international tournament.
Giving veteran Carlos Santana some meaningful at-bats against a weaker opponent is a deeply respectful managerial move.
It keeps the entire roster totally engaged while preserving our young superstar for the heavy hitters.
We have to remember the intense physical toll of playing a full major league season followed by a deep playoff run.

Vladdy is hunting for true international glory

Every single fan watching from Toronto feels a massive wave of pride seeing him wear those national colors. It proves he belongs among the absolute elites of the sport.
He carries the immense weight of two baseball-crazed nations on his shoulders with pure joy and swagger.
Resting him now guarantees he will be completely fresh for the epic showdown against Team Venezuela tomorrow.
That highly anticipated matchup demands his absolute best offensive production to secure the crucial victory.
His historic fourteen-year contract extension proves the front office completely believes in his relentless work ethic.
Playing intense, high-stakes games in March prepares him perfectly for another deep October run with his brothers.
He already led us to the World Series last fall with an absolutely otherworldly playoff surge.
Getting a taste of fierce international competition alongside players like Fernando Tatis Jr. will only sharpen his incredible swing.
This minor pause is simply the calm before his next spectacular offensive storm on the diamond.
Returning to spring training healthy and highly motivated is the ultimate goal for the upcoming season.
When he finally steps back into the batter's box, expect absolute fireworks from his majestic bat.
POLL
MARS 10|211 ANSWERS
Toronto Blue Jays get update on Vladimir Guerrero Jr after he misses last game for the Dominican Republic

Will Vladimir Guerrero Jr. win a championship with the Dominican Republic?

Yes13162.1 %
No8037.9 %
List of polls

BLUE JAYS INSIDER
COPYRIGHT @2026 - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TERMS OF SERVICE - PRIVACY POLICY - COOKIE POLICY
RSS FEED - SITEMAP - ROBOTS.TXT