The Toronto Blue Jays were dealt a significant blow Saturday when Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was placed on the seven-day concussion injured list following the frightening collision that forced him out of Friday’s win over the New York Yankees. The star first baseman has since missed two consecutive games, with Toronto splitting the first two without him.
There was some encouraging movement Tuesday, however, as Guerrero returned to the field at Tropicana Field for a light workout. According to Sportsnet’s Arden Zwelling, the 27-year-old went through activation drills and jogging as he continued his recovery, a sign that he is making great progress through MLB’s return to play protocol.
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The Blue Jays announced another positive development later Tuesday. Manager John Schneider said Guerrero is feeling good enough to hit in the batting cage, although the team is still taking his recovery day by day.
“Still kind of taking the day to day with him, but good that he’s doing stuff and feeling better,” Schneider said, via Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi.
Saturday is the first day Guerrero is eligible to return. It would be particularly good news for the six-time All-Star, who has endured a difficult offensive season by his standards. He is batting .263 with seven home runs and 46 RBIs through 115 games.
Guerrero will miss all three games against the Tampa Bay Rays. If his recovery continues smoothly, he could return for the second game of Toronto’s road series against the Yankees.
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The Blue Jays entered Tuesday at 61-65, making Guerrero’s eventual return even more important as they continue their push in the American League playoff race.
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