Trim and fit Guerrero makes Jays feel good all around
“I wish you guys (media members) can see him in person. It's not the same on Zoom. He looks great.”
Those words came courtesy of Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo.
The subject was Vlad Guerrero Jr. and his new body — a leaner, fitter, more committed player who became the talking point Wednesday when the team conducted its daily Zoom calls.
Guerrero was very forthcoming in describing the work he put in this off-season, dropping 30 to 35 pounds in the off-season, as well as coming to grips with the disappointment he felt letting himself and his teammates down by being out of shape the past two seasons.
Guerrero says he's feeling good, moving well, is quicker, stronger, more balanced and eager to do whatever is required to help his team, whether it's at first base or at third.
“I'm very focused right now,'' Guerrero said through an interpreter. “I'm very excited at the way I feel.”
His accountability has endeared Guerrero to his teammates, according to his manager.
“He realized he made a mistake,'' Montoyo said. “He's now in great shape.”
One player who is impressed with Guerrero's turnaround is first baseman/designated hitter Rowdy Tellez, himself no stranger to weight issues.
“He's going to be among the most dangerous players in baseball,'' said Tellez, who tipped the scales at one point at 280 pounds.
He revealed Guerrero reached out seeking advice on how to lose weight. Tellez said he advised him to cut out late-night eating.
Looking around the clubhouse, Tellez said he's bullish on the Jays of 2021.
“You look at the lineup and every one has a chance to hit 30 homers,'' he said. “We're going to be scary . ... We're going to be contenders out of the gate.”
Meanwhile, the third-year manager wants Cavan Biggio to take as many reps as possible at third, providing Guerrero with as many reps at first. When the Jays face a tough left-handed arm, Montoyo said he won't be afraid to slot Guerrero at third.