The Toronto Blue Jays got the result they needed Friday night, beating the New York Yankees 3-1 to move within one game of the final American League wild card spot. But the win came with a major concern attached, as Toronto’s biggest offensive star left the game after a frightening collision at third base.
Guerrero had gone 1-for-3 with a run scored before the sixth-inning play abruptly ended his night. He was trying to advance to third when an errant throw created a chaotic sequence, and George Lombard Jr.’s knee struck Guerrero in the head as he slid into the bag. Guerrero still managed to score, but he appeared shaken up and was replaced at first base in the seventh inning.
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After the game, manager John Schneider told reporters that Guerrero had a bit of a headache following the collision and was undergoing testing under the concussion protocol. He also confirmed that his status for Saturday would depend on how he is feeling.
The Blue Jays have now made their decision for Saturday’s game, with Guerrero out of the starting lineup against the Yankees. This marks his tenth absence of the season, the most games he has missed since his rookie year.
Schneider confirmed that Guerrero is still going through the concussion protocol, according to MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson, with the Blue Jays potentially making a decision on his availability before Saturday’s game.
The Blue Jays manager added that his caution also comes from personal experience. During his playing career in the Minor Leagues, the Blue Jays manager was diagnosed with seven concussions and believes he likely suffered a few more.
Despite the setback, Friday’s victory improved the Blue Jays to 60-64. They have won four of their last five games, and sit just four games behind the Boston Red Sox for the third AL wild card spot.
Guerrero is batting .263/.337/.356 with a .693 OPS and 97 wRC+. He has recorded seven home runs, all on the road, and 46 RBIs.
Should Guerrero be ruled out entirely, Toronto will have to win another game without its franchise player and hope his condition is less severe. The Blue Jays will send Braydon Fisher to the mound against Yankees ace Cam Schlittler, with first pitch scheduled for 3:07 p.m. ET at Rogers Centre.
