Toronto Blue Jays’ Matt Chapman, left, is doubled off by teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr., right, after hitting a double against the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Toronto. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stands before a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Toronto.
Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. got good news Thursday when an MRI on his right knee showed no inflammation and no structural damage. Guerrero was in the starting lineup for the second straight night as the Blue Jays wrapped up a three-game series with the Yankees. He is day-to-day and could be available off the bench Thursday night. Toronto opens a three-game series against the playoff-bound Rays on Friday in Tampa, Florida.
“I think the MRI to give him peace of mind was a good thing,” Toronto manager John Schneider said. – He knows his body very well. He plays a lot. So he knows when he’s good and when he’s not.” Guerrero was late Wednesday and underwent an MRI during Toronto’s 6-1 win.
I was worried about it, but I got the results and it was a little calm,” Guerrero said through translator Hector LeBron. “Of course I’m sad that I can’t be in the lineup, try to do your best. I guess I have to rest or something, but I can do it.
The slugger had to bat third as the designated hitter for the Blue Jays, who are in a tight playoff race. Toronto held off Texas and Seattle for the second of three American League wild card spots.
“It’s very difficult for me to be in the lineup, but thank God we’re all fine now,” Guerrero said. – We remain in the finals. So I’d rather take care of it now and not risk a late season or playoff loss. About two hours before Wednesday’s bout, Schneider said Guerrero’s sore right knee had been barking for a few days and he was grinding through it.
