First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays is modifying his previous statement that he would never play for the New York Yankees.
With the Blue Jays in last place in the American League East, 16 games behind the Yankees, and the trade deadline approaching on July 30, Guerrero was questioned Monday night about his previous remarks.
“People say stuff sometimes. “I am not attempting to retract my remarks regarding the Yankees,” Guerrero stated to Virus Deportivo on Monday. However, this is a business. This is a business, I explained to my family and dad [Vladimir Guerrero Sr.] when I sat down to talk. And I promised never to bring up this subject again, even though several people had questioned me about it.”
Guerrero Jr. declared in 2022 that he would “never sign with the Yankees — not even dead.” He stated that it was “a personal thing that goes back with my family…. I would never change that” in an interview with the New York Post in 2023.
However, never say never.
“Like I tell you, I’m a player, and obviously, if a team picks me or does something, it’s because they need it, and I’ll be happy to help any team,” Guerrero said to Virus Deportivo on Monday. “But right now, I’m just focused on helping my team try to get out of this bad streak.”
After Anthony Rizzo injured his right forearm and is anticipated to be out until August, the Yankees are looking for a first base replacement. Together with calling up Ben Rice from the minor leagues, New York also acquired J.D. Davis in a trade with the Oakland Athletics.
However, Guerrero, 25, would be a tremendous asset to an offensive line that already includes players like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. Guerrero is hitting now after a sluggish beginning. Guerrero, who is signed through the 2025 season, is 286 with 10 home runs and 35 RBIs for the Blue Jays this season. General manager Ross Atkins has previously stated that it “doesn’t make any sense” to move Guerrero.
Guerrero’s antics during his home run trot have already angered Yankees fans on several occasions. On April 7, Guerrero circled the bases following a home run, lifted his right index finger to his lips as he passed third base, then gestured to the crowd when he was between first and second base.
