The Toronto Blue Jays punched their ticket to the American League Championship Series on Wednesday, defeating the New York Yankees in four games in the ALDS. It marks the franchise’s first ALCS appearance since 2016.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rose to the occasion all series long, leading an impressive Blue Jays offense that scored 34 total runs off of New York. The 26-year-old superstar made it clear his goal was winning three games to advance and he fulfilled his promise.
After slumping in the month of September heading into the postseason, Guerrero rebounded in a huge way in the ALDS, posting a .529 batting average with nine hits, three home runs and nine RBIs. He became the first Blue Jay to ever hit a postseason grand slam during Game 2.
Guerrero’s performance spoke volumes, but the moment carried even more weight within his family. His father, MLB legend Vladimir Guerrero Sr., shared a message on X after the Blue Jays eliminated the Yankees.
“From that boy with a glove bigger than his hand, to today. Advancing to the Championship Series. Proud of your performance in this series, you gave it your all! ⚾️ Proud is an understatement. #VG27,” Guerrero wrote on X.
Since debuting in 2019, Guerrero has become the face of the franchise, earning five All-Star selections, two Silver Sluggers and a Gold Glove while anchoring Toronto’s lineup. In April, he signed a record-breaking 14-year, $500 million extension—the largest in team history.
The deal reflected not just his offensive firepower but his defensive growth, transforming into a dependable first baseman after early struggles. His ALDS performance only reinforced his value. As Toronto pushes deeper into October, Guerrero’s legacy continues to grow—just as his father once did.
Desde aquel niño con un guante más grande que su mano, hasta hoy. Avanzando a la Serie de Campeonato. Orgulloso de tu desempeño en esta serie, ¡lo diste todo! ⚾️ Orgulloso es poco.#VG27 pic.twitter.com/brrHAbKtLK
— Vladimir Guerrero (@VladGuerrero27) October 9, 2025
Guerrero Sr. played 16 seasons in the majors, earning nine All-Star selections, eight Silver Sluggers and the 2004 AL MVP. Known for his elite bat speed and fearless approach at the plate, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018, cementing his place among baseball’s all-time greats.
One thing Guerrero Sr. never accomplished was winning a World Series title, which Guerrero Jr. will have an opportunity to fight for as Toronto has moved on to the ALCS.
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