Vladimir Guerrero Jr. can never be accused of a lack of self-confidence.
During a recent conversation with ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, Guerrero spoke glowingly about his own abilities when discussing his unusual career trajectory. Despite extended slumps in 2022 and 2023, Guerrero continued to believe in his own talent. The reward was a dominant 2024 season in which Guerrero hit .320/.395/.557 with 27 home runs and 85 RBIs in 497 ABs.
For the former MVP runner-up, it was more than just a return to form. Guerrero is well on his way to what is probably his best season yet, or at least his best half season. The Toronto Blue Jays are unfortunately collapsing around him, but Guerrero continues to view his situation positively and strives for excellence at the plate.
Speaking to ESPN, he also made a bold statement about his place in the hierarchy of MLB stars. Vladdy doesn’t believe he is one of the best. He believes he The preferably.
“In my eyes, I am the best in the world.”
That’s… a real criticism. Guerrero should have that confidence – all the greats do – but of course, as fans, we can question his resume.
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The MLB’s Best Player title currently belongs unanimously to Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani. Although he is still a full-time DH and has just undergone his second elbow surgery, Ohtani is close to winning his third MVP award. Close behind is New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who had 51 home runs and 122 RBIs at the end of August.
It’s no coincidence that Los Angeles and New York are at the top of their divisions, both battling for first place, while the Blue Jays languish in mediocrity. Baseball is one of the best team sports — one person can’t carry the whole collective — but Guerrero had a slow start this season before finding his stride. In the meantime, Toronto’s competitive ambitions were dashed.
Guerrero is clearly on his way to some level of greatness. Not unlike his father, Guerrero possesses an incredible ability to process pitches in real time. His bat-ball skills are unmatched, and teammate George Springer is supporting the hype train. He doesn’t call Guerrero the best in the world, but he does give the first baseman a “top-five” label.
“I think a lot of people forget how young he actually is. At 25, I was basically in my second season in the major leagues. He’s one of the top five players in the game in my opinion and will remain so for a long time. I think once he finds that next level, he’s going to be incredible.”
That’s the basis for the Blue Jays’ optimism right now. Guerrero clearly wants to go to Toronto, unlike some other stars on the roster who are in their mid-20s. He’s a truly outstanding offensive talent and the kind of hard-hitting superstar you can build a productive offense around. Toronto has the capital to improve its roster, as evidenced by the $700 million signing of Shohei Ohtani last winter, but Ross Atkins and the front office (and the powers above them) need to actually step up and deliver.
Guerrero’s contract expires after next season. He’s open to an extension, but that doesn’t mean he’ll take it. Not when his free agent market is sure to be robust. The Blue Jays could face significant competition for Guerrero’s services if they don’t act quickly and aggressively.
From then on, the goal should be to make up for the mistakes of a failed season break and to finally bring Guerrero into the team as a serious competitor.
