Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider has provided significant updates regarding star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. during the team’s spring training in Dunedin, Florida.
Contract Extension Discussions
Guerrero, 25, has been vocal about securing a long-term contract with the Blue Jays. Earlier this offseason, he set a personal deadline, stating he would not engage in contract negotiations once spring training commenced. With the first full-squad workout scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, that deadline is rapidly approaching.
Addressing the situation, Schneider emphasized the organization’s commitment to retaining Guerrero:
“We all want Vlad to be here. Ross [Atkins, General Manager] has said that, and I’ve said that. You just keep working towards it and hopefully it happens, but our conversations have really been about this year and how we can get better.”
General Manager Ross Atkins echoed this sentiment, highlighting the mutual interest in finalizing an extension before the self-imposed deadline.
Positional Flexibility: A Return to Third Base
In a strategic move during the 2024 season, Schneider assigned Guerrero to play third base in select games, a position he manned during his minor league tenure and early MLB career. This decision aimed to enhance the team’s lineup flexibility and capitalize on Guerrero’s defensive versatility.
Schneider clarified that this adjustment was not a permanent position change:
“It’s not a position change by any means. [Guerrero] could play there perhaps a couple days out of a week and a half to get the most out of other guys on the roster.”
This occasional shift allowed the Blue Jays to optimize their roster, providing opportunities for other players to contribute effectively.
Leadership and Accountability
Throughout the previous season, Schneider and the coaching staff emphasized the importance of hustle and on-field awareness. Following a base-running misstep by Guerrero in a game against the New York Yankees, Schneider addressed the issue directly, underscoring the team’s commitment to accountability.
“Vladdy flat-out needs to run harder… that’s inexcusable.”
Schneider noted that Guerrero was receptive to the feedback and highlighted the role of teammates, such as Lourdes Gurriel Jr., in reinforcing these standards within the clubhouse.
Looking Ahead
As the Blue Jays prepare for the upcoming season, the focus remains on fostering a culture of excellence and securing Guerrero’s future with the organization. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these developments will influence the team’s performance in the highly competitive American League East.
For those following the Blue Jays’ spring training progress, the team’s schedule includes several key matchups in the coming weeks:
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Note: The information provided is based on reports from February 2025. For the latest updates, please refer to official Toronto Blue Jays communications.
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