Since his Major League Baseball debut in 2019, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has become a central figure for the Toronto Blue Jays, earning five All-Star appearances, two All-<a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB first team honors, a Gold Glove, two Silver Slugger awards, and the AL Hank Aaron award. Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Guerrero Jr. credits a deeply personal source of strength and motivation: his daughter, Vlaimel, born to him and his wife Nathalie on August 14, 2017.
In a heartfelt conversation with MLB.com insider Keegan Matheson, Guerrero Jr. described the profound love he feels for Vlaimel and the positive effect she has on his daily life, especially after challenging games. He explained that no matter how his performance goes on the field, seeing his daughter instantly transforms his mood.
“I say ‘Love,’ because every time I come home from the ballpark, no matter what — even if I go 0-for-3 or 0-for-4 — when I see her, my day changes,” Guerrero said “That’s why I say ‘Love.’ Every time I see her, I feel love in my heart. I thank God I have my daughter with me all the time.” —Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Vlaimel’s personality also reminds Guerrero Jr. of himself at that age, forming a special bond between father and daughter through their shared traits.
“She’s funny, but she cries a lot, too. I was like that as a kid, too, so that reminds me of when I was a kid. We’re exactly the same.” —Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
How Vlaimel Influenced Guerrero Jr.’s Long-Term Commitment to Toronto
After an impressive 2024 season, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. secured a landmark fourteen-year, $500 million contract extension with the Toronto Blue Jays in early April. During the same interview, he revealed that his daughter played a crucial role in his decision to remain in the city for the long term.
“One of the main reasons that I signed my contract in Toronto, it was for Vlaimel. Of course, it was for my entire family, but she loves the city. She loves it. She loves the fans. She’s always happy to be around (the stadium), and she’s always happy there. She’s one of the main reasons that I’m here in Toronto,” Guerrero explained.
Guerrero Jr.’s connection to his daughter Vlaimel and her affection for Toronto contributed directly to the organization’s success and his personal commitment. Since signing the contract, the Blue Jays have surged to the top of the American League East standings, holding the best record in the league and positioning themselves as strong contenders for a division title, something they have not achieved since 2015.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Future in the MLB and Toronto’s Outlook
The ongoing impact of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s daughter on both his personal life and professional career underscores a powerful source of motivation amid a competitive MLB landscape. Guerrero Jr.’s extended stay in Toronto thanks to Vlaimel’s influence signals a hopeful future for both player and team, as they aim to reclaim dominance in the AL East. His emotional connection with his daughter and the city highlights the importance of family in athletic performance and longevity at the highest level.