The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for an exciting three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, commencing this Friday evening. Coinciding with this matchup, the Dodgers are honoring Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, which has prompted Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to show his support for the NBA icon.
Guerrero Jr., 26, arrived at Dodger Stadium donning a Lakers shirt adorned with Kobe Bryant and some of his former teammates’ images. This weekend marks a special return to Los Angeles for Guerrero, who spent part of his childhood in the city while his father played for the Angels between 2004 and 2009, likely inspiring his admiration for the Lakers and Bryant.
The Dodgers will be offering fans Kobe Bryant bobbleheads during Friday’s game, enhancing the atmosphere for Lakers fans. Guerrero’s homage to Bryant aligns with the festivities, making the game even more compelling as both teams currently sit atop their respective divisions.
Guerrero Jr. is enjoying a stellar season, manifesting his skills with a .296 batting average, a .398 on-base percentage, 128 hits, 18 home runs, and 62 RBIs. Recently, he completed a three-game hitting streak and aims to extend that momentum against the Dodgers, hoping to lead the Blue Jays to their fourth consecutive victory after sweeping the Colorado Rockies.
As both teams vie for supremacy, the Blue Jays will be determined to disrupt the Dodgers’ aspirations for a win in front of a fervent home crowd, all while pushing to maintain their lead over the Boston Red Sox in the AL East. The intertwining of sports and tribute adds an exciting layer to this anticipated series.