The Toronto Blue Jays were right on the cusp of a World Series title before losing to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the 2026 season has not gone well for many reasons.
One big surprise is slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is hitting just .259 with 8 home runs and 44 RBIs going into Wednesday, a far cry from his 23 home runs and 84 RBIs in 2025. In 2024, he had 30 home runs with 103 RBIs.
On Tuesday, Boue Jays GM Ross Atkins opened up on Guerrero’s struggles, and he said he is even losing sleep over it.
“I lose sleep,” Atkins said. “There are subtle differences. There’s no glaring, alarming concern… He feels pressure and disappointment, but he’s facing it head on.”
"It's been disappointing that we haven't been able to provide the right support… We have an understanding of the subtle differences; there's no alarming concern."
— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) August 4, 2026
Ross Atkins chats with @SNJeffBlair and Kevin Barker about his confidence in Vladimir Guerrero Jr. pic.twitter.com/KLWydQM3ZK
The Blue Jays gave Guerrero a massive 14-year, $500 million extension in 2025, so it is frustrating to see him perform like this after the huge payday.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider said recently he has no problem with Guerrero showing his frustration, especially with the way the season has gone for the reigning American League champions.
Toronto kept Guerrero out of the lineup on Wednesday to give him a break, and the team currently sits in last place in the AL East.
