"The Blue Jays used Nathan Lukes in the two-hole for much of 2025, and that strategy worked well until the World Series, where his OPS sank to .457 against the Dodgers' elite pitching staff. Would that exceptionally tight series have unfolded differently had Guerrero been up instead in a few of those crucial spots? George Springer will presumably bat leadoff again for the Blue Jays in 2026, especially if Bo Bichette doesn't return this winter."
"The need to bat Guerrero second will only be further reinforced if the Blue Jays sign Bichette or Kyle Tucker. Having either of them hitting behind Guerrero would provide excellent protection and give the Blue Jays one of the most fearsome one-two-three combinations in the entire league. The other argument to bat Guerrero third is that he will have more opportunities to drive in runs with more baserunners ahead of him."
"However, this argument discounts the possibility of Guerrero driving himself in, which can't be overstated. An extra 20 or 30 at-bats from Guerrero in 2026 could result in an extra win or two via the long ball."
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. should move to the second spot to maximize plate appearances and run-scoring opportunities. Guerrero has shown differing OPS figures when hitting second versus third, and increased at-bats could amplify his power output. Using a high on-base leadoff hitter such as George Springer ahead of Guerrero would create more RBI chances and allow Guerrero to drive in teammates more frequently. Signing Bo Bichette or Kyle Tucker would add protection behind Guerrero and strengthen the top of the order. The counterargument about more baserunners ahead when hitting third underestimates Guerrero's ability to drive himself in.
Read at BlueJaysNation
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]