The Toronto Blue Jays started their Spring Training camp with a lively atmosphere, as players showed enthusiasm early in the preseason. Among them, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer caught attention not only for their skills but also for their playful behavior, setting an example for the younger athletes invited to camp.
A friendly dispute between the two stars recently turned into a humorous prank. During interactions at the camp, Guerrero accused Springer of moving his belongings, which escalated into Guerrero hiding Springer’s shoes, forcing him to face the media wearing cleats. Springer recounted the incident to reporters on Tuesday, highlighting the playful yet competitive nature of the exchange.
[Vladimir Guerrero Jr.] threw his glove at me. Instead of it hitting me, I caught it. Then he thought I threw his glove in the trash. And then he thought I moved his bag, but his glove and his bag were in the same spot. So he blamed me for something I didn’t do. And then he took my shoe.
?George Springer, Blue Jays Outfielder
Players’ Bond Shapes Blue Jays’ Quest for Redemption after 2025 Playoffs
The camaraderie demonstrated between Guerrero and Springer reflects the collective spirit the Blue Jays aim to build as they recover from a painful postseason exit in 2025. Both athletes played pivotal roles in that campaign, with Springer hitting a crucial go-ahead home run in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners, securing Toronto’s place in the World Series.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was equally impressive throughout the playoffs, posting a .397 batting average with eight home runs and 15 RBIs, contributing with a strong 1.289 OPS. Their performances generated hope for a deep run the following season, despite the bitter defeat they endured.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Expresses Determination to Lead Team to Victory in 2026
During a camp session on Monday, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. reflected on the emotional impact of the Blue Jays’ narrow loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a seven-game World Series thriller. Although Toronto had held the lead in the decisive game held at home, the Dodgers staged a comeback to win 5-4.
When I left, I felt like I had faced reality, and the only thing I had left to say to myself was just thank God for the year I had, for the year the team had had,
Guerrero said.
Right then, I just turned the page.
?Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays Third Baseman
With new motivation and optimism, Guerrero is confident about the team’s chances this season, especially after enhancements to the roster during the off-season.
I think we are very capable,
Guerrero added.
I think it’s going to be more fun and I’m actually more happy than last year. For whatever reason, I’m happy, and I’m feeling great. I have good feelings about this year, and I know we’re capable of doing a lot of good things.
?Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays Third Baseman
New Additions Aim to Strengthen Blue Jays’ Lineup and Pitching
Toronto’s roster improvements include the addition of pitchers Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Tyler Rogers to their pitching staff, aiming to bolster an already competitive rotation. A major signing is Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto, who will step into the lineup role previously held by Bo Bichette, now with the New York Mets.
These changes reflect the Blue Jays’ commitment to building a versatile and experienced team that can challenge for the championship in the upcoming MLB season, as they seek to improve upon last season’s heartbreak.
"[Vladdy] thought I threw his glove in the trash, and then he thought I moved his bag… He blamed me for something I didn't do, and then he took my shoe."
Some shenanigans between George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 😂 pic.twitter.com/o8vz9IMYC4
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 17, 2026
