The Toronto Blue Jays announced Saturday that first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been placed on the seven-day injured list following a concussion sustained during Friday’s game against the New York Yankees.
Guerrero was removed from the game after taking a knee to the head in the sixth inning of the Blue Jays’ 3-1 win. Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr. collided with Guerrero during a chaotic play at third base, causing Guerrero’s helmet to fly off. Despite appearing dazed, Guerrero scored the tying run before being replaced. Manager John Schneider confirmed Guerrero had “a little bit of a headache” and still experienced discomfort the following day.
Guerrero, a six-time All-Star, was batting .263 with seven home runs and 46 RBIs this season. The Blue Jays activated outfielder Daz Cameron to replace Guerrero on the roster, while right-hander Lazaro Estrada was designated for assignment to make room. In related roster moves, left-handed pitcher Ricky Tiedemann was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo, and right-hander Chase Lee was sent to the Bisons.
The Collision and Immediate Aftermath
The incident occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning of Friday’s game. With runners on first and second, Guerrero was attempting to advance to third base after a defensive misplay by Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon and first baseman Luis Garcia Jr. Guerrero’s helmet was dislodged when Lombard’s knee struck his head during the collision. Despite the impact, Guerrero completed the play by scoring the tying run.
Schneider described the decision to remove Guerrero as “kind of precautionary” and noted that Guerrero’s status would be reevaluated the next day. Guerrero underwent concussion protocol testing after the game but was not cleared to play on Saturday.
Roster Adjustments and Player Reactions
To accommodate Guerrero’s absence, the Blue Jays made several roster moves. Daz Cameron, who was hitting .367/.462/.582 in 23 games at Triple-A Buffalo, was called up to replace him. Cameron has prior MLB experience with the Detroit Tigers, Oakland A’s, and Milwaukee Brewers, slashing .200/.286/.350 in 160 career games.
In a separate transaction, the Blue Jays promoted Ricky Tiedemann, a former top-100 prospect whose career has been hampered by injuries. Tiedemann, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2025, allowed four runs in three innings across three Triple-A appearances this season. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It’s big for all of us.”
Pitcher Lazaro Estrada was designated for assignment to create roster flexibility, while Chase Lee was optioned to Triple-A. The moves reflect the Blue Jays’ efforts to balance short-term needs with long-term roster development.
Guerrero’s Season and Team Impact
Guerrero, the Blue Jays’ 2025 postseason hero, has been a key offensive contributor in 2026. His .263 batting average, seven home runs, and 46 RBIs have been instrumental in the team’s push for a playoff spot. The Blue Jays’ lineup, already dealing with injuries to other key players, will now rely on Cameron and Tiedemann to fill the void left by Guerrero’s absence.
The team has not yet provided a timeline for Guerrero’s return, pending further evaluation of his concussion symptoms.