Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has passed all required testing to clear concussion protocols and is expected to return from the seven-day injured list, according to MLB.com. Guerrero missed a week of action following a violent base-path collision with New York Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr., leaving the club poised to shake up its active roster as it pushes for the postseason.
Concussion Protocol and Rehab Return
According to MLB.com, Guerrero cleared his final testing benchmarks after playing in a Single-A rehab game for the Dunedin Blue Jays. During that Thursday appearance in Clearwater, Guerrero went through his paces by doubling and walking twice. The six-time All-Star landed on the seven-day injured list last weekend after a bizarre play at third base during a 3-1 win over the Yankees, where Lombard’s left knee and thigh struck Guerrero’s head, sending the infielder’s helmet flying. According to The Canadian Press, Guerrero managed to get up and score the tying run before exiting the game. Manager John Schneider noted that Guerrero immediately reported concussion symptoms, battling a headache that night and the following morning.
Roster Moves and Lineup Adjustments
To accommodate Guerrero’s return, the Blue Jays optioned infielder Davis Schneider back to Triple-A Buffalo, according to MLB.com. Davis Schneider had just rejoined the club a day prior but is expected to remain a depth option when rosters expand from 26 to 28 players on September 1.
Did you know? Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s rehab appearance in Clearwater marked a return to the Single-A Dunedin squad he originally starred with back in 2017, a minor league roster that featured future major leaguers Bo Bichette, Cavan Biggio, and Danny Jansen under the management of a young John Schneider, according to team accounts.
Resetting for the Stretch Run
Manager John Schneider expressed hope that the mandatory layoff serves as both a physical and mental reset for Guerrero, who has endured an uncharacteristic, slump-filled season. According to MLB.com, Guerrero is currently batting .263 with seven home runs and a .693 OPS across 115 games, notably lacking a single home run at Rogers Centre this year. Beyond the head injury, the organization believes the time away allowed Guerrero to rest nagging back and hamstring issues. Schneider told reporters that the slugger looks refreshed physically and ready to anchor the middle of the order as Toronto chases a playoff berth.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why was Vladimir Guerrero Jr. placed on the injured list?
According to The Canadian Press, Guerrero was placed on the seven-day injured list after sustaining a concussion from a knee-to-head collision with Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr. at third base. - What were Guerrero’s rehab stats before returning?
According to MLB.com, Guerrero played one rehab game for Single-A Dunedin, where he hit a double and drew two walks. - Who was optioned to make room for Guerrero?
According to MLB.com, infielder Davis Schneider was optioned back to Triple-A Buffalo in a corresponding roster move.
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