Blue Jays: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Takes the Reigns In Preparation for 2021

After an early 2-game sweep in the 2020 postseason, Blue Jays slugger, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. grabs the leash and takes control of his destiny, prepping for a new season.

The monster corner infielder signed his professional contract with the Blue Jays back in 2015 for $3.9 million and was the focal point of the grassroots section of the organization. He held 4th overall ranking of the MLB International top prospects list that year.

The 2020 season for the Blue Jays shed light on the phenomenal young talent the team was comprised of. The team finished 32-28, sitting 3rd in the AL East and claiming the final 8th seed in the new 16-team playoff format. Unfortunately, the team well by way of sweep to the 1st seed and World Series finalist, Tampa Bay Rays.

It is in my opinion that collectively the team reflected and realized they pushed hard to be in that situation of making the postseason, which was a huge accomplishment. Most of the team, being inexperienced in postseason play was an eye-opener to what the possibilities were and what was needed moving forward to win a playoff series.

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Vladimir Guerrero Jr. surely understood what the offseason would mean for his own development. His postseason stats showed 7 AB, 0 R, 1 H, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB, with a 1.43 average.  His 2020 totals looked like 221 AB, 34 R, 58 H, 9 HR, 33 RBI, 1 SB, and a .262 average.

As the season ended, the birds started to chirp about the idea of moving the slugger to play 1 bag, a position in which would more fit his body type. These rumours were a bit degrading to the hottest name in Toronto Baseball; 21-year-old in his 1st full season as a big leaguer being questioned regarding weight, fitness, and accommodation of defensive positioning…. doesn’t sound appealing.

Without a doubt, Vladdy took it into his own hands, hitting a program of strength and conditioning right after the playoffs were completed for the blue birds. He shredded up to about 15-20 pounds, sitting at 250lbs.  You can tell the difference visually.  He looked healthier, slim, and more agile.

In late November, he’s seen on social working out in the Dominican Republic with New York Mets minor leaguer Gregory Guerrero, who’s also the same age as Vladdy, and is believed to be a relative.

Vladdy is currently playing winter ball in the Dominican Republic to get his reps up with the Leones Del Escogido. His new carved body in progress looked strong and improved as he launched 2 monster shots.

2021 will be a fun year to see the slugger tee off and to witness the youth of the jays improve and strive for their ultimate goal.