Vladimir Guerrero Jr. played his fourth game since returning from the seven-day concussion injured list Wednesday. The first baseman helped the Toronto Blue Jays defeat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 and snap Kansas City’s nine-game winning streak. Guerrero returned Saturday after clearing MLB’s concussion protocol following his collision with New York Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr.
The Blue Jays’ star first baseman went 1-for-4 with a single Wednesday, giving him 117 hits in 119 games this season. He enters Thursday batting .262 with seven home runs, 46 RBIs, 20 doubles, 62 runs, a .334 OBP, .353 SLG and .687 OPS.
Brad Mills-Imagn Images
Following Toronto’s win, Guerrero shared a message on his Instagram Stories that appeared to reflect his difficult season and recent struggles.
“Today they are falls, tomorrow experience. Today is pain, tomorrow is laughter. You just keep going,” the post read in Spanish.
The message comes during one of the toughest stretches of Guerrero’s career. He is batting .242 with a .588 OPS in August, including one home run and two RBIs across 15 games.
Guerrero’s struggles have been particularly noticeable at Rogers Centre. The six-time All-Star has played 61 home games this season without hitting a home run.
Toronto will need considerably more from its franchise player down the stretch. The Blue Jays improved to 65-69 with Wednesday’s win and remain within three games of the Cleveland Guardians for the American League’s final wild card spot.
Guerrero will have another opportunity to end that drought Thursday when the Blue Jays host the Royals in the series finale. First pitch is scheduled for 7:07 p.m. ET. Spencer Arrighetti is expected to start for Toronto against Kansas City’s Noah Cameron.
Toronto Blue Jays Essentials
- The greatest Blue Jays pitchers of all-time
- 5 best hitters in Blue Jays history
- The greatest Blue Jays shortstops of all-time
- 5 best outfielders in Blue Jays history
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s net worth, MLB salary, and bonuses
