Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is widely recognized for his powerful hitting, but Blue Jays teammate Daulton Varsho highlights another side of him beyond the stats. During a recent episode of Foul Territory, Varsho described Guerrero as an energetic and fun teammate who brings a youthful spirit to the clubhouse despite his status as a top player. This insight comes after Guerrero secured a monumental $500 million contract extension in 2024, locking in his future with the Toronto Blue Jays.
“He is the definition of a kid that’s stuck in an adult’s body,” Varsho said. “He’s the ultimate prankster, he’s one of the best teammates. He’s always happy-go-lucky. He deserves it, because he’s played really well.”
Guerrero Jr.’s dedication remains steadfast after landmark contract signing
Contrary to a common stereotype where players ease off after signing lucrative deals, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. maintains a relentless work ethic on and off the field. Varsho emphasized that Guerrero does not let his financial success affect his drive, continuing to put in consistent effort to improve his game. This determined mindset is evident as Guerrero expands his approach beyond raw power, contributing more tactically during games.
“He doesn’t take the money for granted,” Varsho noted. “He’s still going to play hard every day. You see kind of that trap a little bit where a guy gets his money and he stops working, that’s a total opposite for him.”
“He’s trying to get better and trying to be the best version of himself. You’re seeing it now, it’s not all power anymore, he’s taking his walks, he’s moving runner. He’s doing everything right that you want your $500 million player to do. It’s really cool to see.”
Impact on Blue Jays’ playoff aspirations amid challenging season
Both Guerrero Jr. and Varsho are pivotal contributors as the Toronto Blue Jays push toward postseason contention in 2024. Despite experiencing some setbacks, Toronto holds third place in the fiercely competitive AL East, posting a 43-37 record at this stage. Guerrero’s sustained performance and leadership provide a significant boost as the team aims to regain momentum and secure a playoff berth.
Looking ahead: Guerrero Jr.’s role in the Blue Jays’ future
The $500 million contract represents more than a financial milestone—it signals the Blue Jays’ commitment to building around Guerrero Jr. as a franchise cornerstone. His ambition to continually refine his skills ensures that fans and teammates alike can expect his contributions to extend well beyond pure power hitting. Guerrero’s evolving game and vibrant team presence are likely to influence Toronto’s trajectory for years to come.