Blue Jays hit with major Vladimir Guerrero Jr. blow at critical point of season

The Toronto Blue Jays will be without one of their biggest stars after placing first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the seven-day injured list Saturday because of concussion symptoms.

Guerrero was injured during Toronto’s 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees on Friday following a frightening collision with rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr. during a chaotic play at third base in the sixth inning.

Lombard attempted to leap over Guerrero as the Blue Jays slugger slid into third. Lombard’s knee and thigh struck Guerrero in the head, knocking off the six-time All-Star’s helmet.

Guerrero managed to get back to his feet and eventually raced home to score the tying run, but he appeared dazed after crossing the plate. Charles McAdoo replaced him at first base in the seventh inning.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider said after Friday’s game that Guerrero had “a little bit of a headache.” Those symptoms remained Saturday, prompting Toronto to place him on the concussion IL.

Guerrero is batting .263 with seven home runs and 46 RBIs this season. Losing the middle-of-the-order threat, even for a short period, creates another challenge for a Toronto lineup entering an important stretch of the season.

Blue Jays make immediate roster move

The Blue Jays selected outfielder Daz Cameron from Triple-A Buffalo to take Guerrero’s spot on the active roster. Toronto designated right-hander Lazaro Estrada for assignment to create room on the 40-man roster.

Toronto also made another pitching move Saturday, recalling left-hander Ricky Tiedemann from Buffalo while optioning right-hander Chase Lee to Triple-A.

Tiedemann went 0-1 with a 6.43 ERA in seven appearances, including two starts, across three minor league levels this season.

The immediate concern, however, remains Guerrero’s recovery.

There is no firm timetable beyond the mandatory seven-day concussion IL period. Toronto will now monitor Guerrero’s symptoms and progression before determining when its six-time All-Star is ready to return.

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