TORONTO, CANADA – JUNE 26: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks to the dugout in the seventh inning during a game against the Texas Rangers at Rogers Centre on June 26, 2026 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/IOS/Getty Images)
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The Toronto Blue Jays have developed plenty of traditions during their recent run as one of the American League’s top clubs.
But as the team looks to recapture its momentum from a second-half surge and deep playoff run last year, it seems the players are cycling through some options in search of the right on-base celebration to spark an improvement.
For one rookie enjoying a breakout campaign, however, keeping up with the latest ritual led to a necessary correction from one of Toronto’s biggest stars.
Toronto Blue Jays Superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr Sends Rookie Message After Mistaken Celebration
One of the Blue Jays’ latest dugout celebrations appears to be a hand gesture without a clear origin.
“As Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stood on second base after driving in George Springer with a double in a recent Blue Jays victory at the Rogers Centre, the first baseman looked into the dugout, lifted his hands above his head and tapped his knuckles together,” Kaitlyn McGrath wrote for the Toronto Star. “This gesture has become a common sight lately whenever a Blue Jays player records a hit. Even manager John Schneider joined in on the fun during an on-field celebration after a recent win.”
But rookie Brandon Valenzuela admitted recently that he’s had some trouble keeping up with the evolving celebrations. And apparently Guerrero is helping to enforce the proper camaraderie.
“Valenzuela, in the midst of a breakout first season, admitted he’s had trouble keeping track of the changing signal,” McGrath added. “Once, when he did the wrong one, Guerrero was quick to correct him on his error: ‘We’re not doing that, bro, we’re doing this,’ Valenzuela recalled of the first baseman’s words.”
The lighthearted exchange offered another glimpse into Guerrero’s leadership role inside Toronto’s clubhouse and the team’s ongoing focus on getting the vibes right.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr’s Veteran Leadership Persists Amid Challenging Season
While Guerrero continues mentoring younger players, his individual production has dipped from last season’s remarkable performance.
“After Guerrero wrapped up a stellar 2025 campaign in which he earned ALCS MVP honors while helping Toronto make a World Series appearance, he hasn’t been as productive at the plate this season,” Zach Bachar wrote for Bleacher Report. “He’s hitting .265 with four home runs, 13 doubles and 35 RBI in 309 at-bats. Guerrero’s .692 OPS represents a career-low mark.”
Even with those offensive struggles, Guerrero remains one of the most influential voices in Toronto’s clubhouse. His willingness to guide a rookie through something as simple as the team’s celebration reflects the leadership responsibilities that often accompany franchise players.
And for a team that hasn’t met expectations so far this season, nailing the on-base celebration is probably more important than a lot of fans might think.