Blue Jays' John Schneider Had Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Words After Mariners Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated May 10, 2025 3:27 PM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays entered Friday night's game against the Seattle Mariners seeking to build momentum and climb the American League East standings. With a 6-3 victory, they improved their record to 18-20, moving within 1.5 games of a Wild Card spot. The win was highlighted by a standout defensive play from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the bottom of the eighth inning.

With the bases loaded and no outs, the Mariners threatened to overturn the Blue Jays' lead. Guerrero Jr., stationed at first base, fielded a sharply hit grounder, quickly recovered from a bobble, and fired a throw to home plate, securing a crucial out and preserving Toronto's advantage.

Manager John Schneider praised Guerrero Jr.'s quick reflexes and composure under pressure, crediting the former Gold Glove winner for giving the team momentum with his defensive play.

"The perfect storm of runner, ball, all that kind of stuff," he said. "It was a really good, reactionary play by him. He made it look easy, but I think that kind of gave us a little bit of momentum."

Schneider on Vladdy's big play in the 8th:

"The perfect storm of runner, ball, all that kind of stuff. It was a really good, reactionary play by him."

"He made it look easy, but I think that kind of gave us a little bit of momentum." #BlueJays pic.twitter.com/sNuITLyVci
— Mitch Bannon (@MitchBannon) May 10, 2025

Guerrero Jr., who signed a monumental 14-year, $500 million contract extension with the Blue Jays in April, has been one of Toronto's key weapons. His defensive skills have been a significant asset for the Blue Jays this season, and his ability to make challenging plays look routine has enhanced the team's infield stability. Offensively, he has maintained a .294 batting average with four home runs and 18 RBIs over 38 games.

As the Blue Jays continue their series against the Mariners on Saturday, they will look to build on this winning streak and improve their standing in the competitive AL East.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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