TORONTO – Bo Bichette is well aware of his teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s heartfelt promise. If the Toronto Blue Jays win the World Series, Guerrero plans to give his championship ring to his father, Vladimir Guerrero Sr., a Hall of Famer who only made it to the Fall Classic late in his illustrious career.
Bichette, who has developed a close bond with Guerrero since their teenage years, recognizes the importance of this gesture but sees things from another angle. He believes that while Guerrero Sr.—a former player with 449 home runs, a .931 lifetime OPS, an American League MVP award, and nine All-Star selections—deserves credit, so too does Guerrero Jr. The younger Guerrero has made quite an impact by accumulating five All-Star appearances and hitting 183 home runs by the age of 26, boasting a career .861 OPS that revitalized a Blue Jays franchise eagerly searching for a star player.
Guerrero Jr. recently solidified his commitment to the team by signing a staggering 14-year, $500 million contract extension, ensuring his presence in Toronto for years to come. This postseason, he has ignited his potential, smashing six home runs across 11 playoff games and registering a staggering 1.440 OPS, with a .442/.510/.930 line.
For Guerrero Jr., these achievements are deeply personal. After clinching the American League East title and advancing through the playoffs, his emotional responses highlight what this journey means to him and his teammates. “It means a lot,” he expressed. “These are my teammates. I feel so good to be here, with them. I feel so proud to win here, with them.”
Guerrero has shared this path with Bichette and Cavan Biggio, the son of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio. The trio climbed their way up through the Blue Jays organization, facing their challenges together, and these connections only add sentimental value to their playoff run. Despite facing his own injury issues this season, Bichette remains supportive of Guerrero’s achievements, remarking on the inspiration he draws from watching Guerrero’s leadership on and off the field.
Max Scherzer, Guerrero’s teammate, appreciates the opportunity to witness the talent rise in Guerrero Jr., noting the difference between the younger Guerrero and his father’s notorious swing. Scherzer emphasized how Guerrero Jr. has matured and improved throughout this season, highlighting the significance of his growth as a player.
Blue Jays hitting coach David Popkins acknowledges Guerrero’s unique talent and dedication. He described Guerrero as a natural superstar molded for the game, having grown up in it and embraced every moment. “I truly believe he’s built for this moment, built for this series,” said Popkins.
As Guerrero Jr. aspires to bring a championship to Canada, he remains optimistic about the future. His confidence shines as he reflects on winning a title, not only for himself but also for his father. “One hundred percent,” he affirmed about his intention to gift the ring to his father.
With Guerrero Jr. driven to fulfill his dreams on the diamond, the Blue Jays and their fans hold hope that this could set the stage for many more moments of celebration in the years to come.