After leaving the August 18th game against the Pirates in the fifth inning with a hamstring injury, the Blue Jays received positive news about Vladimir Guerrero Jr. An MRI revealed only inflammation, as reported the following day. The injury occurred in the third inning on a signature defensive play where Guerrero stretched to catch a throw from shortstop Bo Bichette for an out.

Manager John Schneider stressed the team’s cautious plan for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. after the MRI results were in. Acknowledging how vital Guerrero is to the lineup, Schneider stated his status was “day-to-day” and that his potential return would be based on his physical condition.

“It’s just day-to-day, really. Whether that’s tonight, tomorrow, or after the [Thursday] off-day, we’ll kind of just base it around how he’s feeling,” he said.

Then, on Friday, a positive development in Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s recovery came when Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae posted a video on X where Guerrero could be seen running in the outfield. He later took batting practice on the field as well. Though he expressed a patient outlook, saying, “It’s going to be soon, but we’ve got to take it day by day,” the day’s activities were encouraging. Following the workout, manager John Schneider noted that a decision would be made on his availability to pinch-hit depending on how he feels.

Both Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Blue Jays, however, are taking a cautious approach to his return. While his first day back hitting batting practice was a positive sign, Guerrero stated he still has hurdles to clear, such as base running and defensive drills. “I still need to run the bases and take ground balls,” he told Sportsnet. “Today’s the first day I’ve hit BP. It’s going to be soon, but we’ve got to take it day by day.” 

Manager John Schneider explained why they are so careful. “We all know how important he is to us,” Schneider said. “Trying to learn from past injuries of that nature, we definitely can’t afford to lose him for an extended period of time. So we’re being cautious, yeah, but at the same time trying to get him back.”

But how’s life been for the Blue Jays without Vladdy?

How are the Jays staying afloat?

Losing your best player is always tough, especially one who was hitting .298 with 21 homers and 69 RBIs. Guerrero had an OPS+ of 146, which means he was 46% better than the average MLB hitter.

Ty France, the Jays’ trade deadline acquisition, stepped into his position. In his first game in Vladdy’s absence, he went 1-for-4 in the 7-3 victory. And in the Jays’ most recent Friday win, he went 2-for-4 with an important two-run single. He is batting .311 in 16 games with the Jays.

The Jays have other players like Ernie Clement, who was hitting .277 this season, to fill that void if necessary. Jays also have another option in outfielder Joey Loperfido, who has been playing at first base in Triple-A Buffalo. But no one can substitute the real impact that Vladdy can produce.

Without their $500 million player, the Toronto went 2-1 in the last 3 games. They have a 75-54 record and are currently leading the AL East division and sitting 5 games ahead of the second-place Red Sox. The dream debut of pitcher Shane Bieber against the Marlins, striking out nine Marlins over six innings, further strengthened the already strong team rotation.

But still, Guerrero Jr.’s return is essential for the Jays to hold their division lead.