“I AM LEAVING”: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Announces Shocking Exit from Toronto Blue Jays
By Thomas L. Ramirez | June 7, 2025 | Toronto, ON
In a move that has stunned fans, shocked teammates, and sent tremors throughout the world of baseball, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the face of the Toronto Blue Jays franchise and one of Major League Baseball’s brightest stars, has announced he will be leaving the team at the end of the 2025 season.
Guerrero Jr., known for his thunderous power at the plate, infectious energy, and deep ties to both the club and city, made the announcement during a surprise press conference at Rogers Centre on Saturday afternoon.
“I am leaving the Toronto Blue Jays,” Guerrero Jr. said, his voice heavy with emotion. “This team, this city, it gave me everything. But it’s time for a new chapter. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s the right one for me and my family.”
His statement lasted just over 7 minutes, delivered in both English and Spanish, after which he did not take questions. The press room was silent in disbelief as one of the most beloved players in Canadian sports history formally declared his intention to part ways with the only major-league team he has ever known.
The Face of a Franchise
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. joined the Blue Jays organization as a teenager, signed as an international free agent in 2015. From the moment he arrived, the expectations were sky-high. As the son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero Sr., there was buzz that Jr. might one day surpass his father’s achievements—and for a time, it seemed like he might do just that.
He made his MLB debut in 2019, and by 2021, Guerrero Jr. had firmly established himself as one of the league’s most dominant hitters, finishing second in AL MVP voting that year. Over the following seasons, he was named to four All-Star teams, earned two Silver Slugger awards, and helped guide the Blue Jays to three postseason appearances.
But it was more than stats that made Guerrero Jr. a fan favorite. He was a symbol of hope for a generation of Blue Jays fans who had grown weary of playoff droughts and rebuild cycles. His joy, humility, and charisma made him a star not just in Toronto, but across Canada.
“He made you believe again,” said long-time Blue Jays supporter Denise O’Hara. “You could bring your kids to a game and say, ‘That’s our guy. That’s Vladdy.’ And he never let us down.”
Why He’s Leaving
Though speculation has been swirling for months regarding his long-term future in Toronto, Saturday’s announcement confirmed the worst fears of Blue Jays fans.
According to sources close to the Guerrero family, the decision to leave was personal and multi-faceted.
“He’s not mad. He’s not upset with the team,” one anonymous source said. “But he’s reached a point where he wants a new challenge. There are also family considerations—he wants to be closer to relatives in the U.S. and spend more time in the offseason with his children.”
There is also growing belief that Guerrero Jr. is looking for a change in team culture and a larger market. Some insiders have pointed to strained relationships with front office leadership and differences in long-term vision for the team.
“There have been discussions behind closed doors that haven’t gone well,” said MLB analyst Jon Heyman. “This isn’t just about money. It’s about legacy. He wants to win, and he wants to feel like he’s in the right place to do that.”
Reaction from Teammates and Fans
Guerrero Jr.’s Blue Jays teammates were reportedly blindsided by the news.
“We’re heartbroken,” said outfielder George Springer. “He’s our leader, our brother. But we support him. We just wish we had more time.”
Manager John Schneider, visibly emotional during a brief media session, said the team would do everything it could to support Guerrero Jr. in his remaining time with the team.
“We’re going to honor him by playing our hearts out. And when it’s time for him to go, he’ll leave with nothing but love from this clubhouse.”
On social media, tributes poured in from across the sports world. Fans began gathering outside Rogers Centre within hours of the announcement, some holding signs reading, “Forever Our Vladdy” and “Thank You #27.”
The Bigger Picture: What It Means for Toronto
Guerrero Jr.’s departure leaves a massive hole—not just in the Blue Jays’ lineup but in their entire organizational identity.
The team has long marketed Guerrero as its centerpiece. His jersey is the top-selling Blue Jays uniform globally. He is a regular face in MLB promotions. And for a club that has struggled to keep big stars, losing him could be seen as a massive step backward.
“This is like losing Roy Halladay all over again,” said radio host Mike Wilner. “Except this time, the city helped raise this kid. It’s deeper.”
The Blue Jays now face hard decisions: Do they attempt a full rebuild? Do they pursue blockbuster trades or high-profile free agents to retool quickly? More pressingly, how will fans respond?
Ticket sales and TV ratings could dip without Guerrero’s star power. The Blue Jays must now begin to answer questions not just about their roster, but their direction, identity, and ability to retain elite talent.
What Comes Next for Vladdy?
Guerrero Jr. did not confirm where he is headed next, but speculation is already rampant.
Possible suitors include:
- New York Yankees – In need of a long-term power bat, and always interested in marquee names.
- Los Angeles Dodgers – Their strong Dominican player presence and consistent World Series contention could be attractive.
- Miami Marlins – Closer to family and the Dominican Republic.
- Chicago Cubs – Emerging contenders with payroll flexibility.
Wherever he lands, one thing is clear: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will be the most coveted name on the market in years.
“He’s a generational talent,” said ESPN’s Buster Olney. “And now he’s available. That doesn’t happen often.”
One Last Ride
Despite the announcement, Guerrero Jr. emphasized that he would finish the 2025 season with Toronto.
“I’m not quitting,” he said. “I’m finishing strong. I want to leave with my head held high—and with love.”
The Blue Jays have 93 games remaining in the regular season. Every one of them, from this moment forward, will carry extra weight. For fans, it’s a farewell tour. For teammates, it’s a call to arms.
“We owe him,” said catcher Alejandro Kirk. “We’re going to fight for him, all the way.”
Legacy Cemented
No matter where Vladimir Guerrero Jr. goes next, his legacy in Toronto is secure.
He gave a city belief. He brought a team back to relevance. He made kids fall in love with baseball again.
And even in his departure, he’s leaving a message:
“This isn’t goodbye forever,” Guerrero Jr. said in closing. “This is just see you later.”
For Blue Jays fans, that message may offer a sliver of comfort in the midst of heartbreak. But for now, they must prepare to let go of their hero—one game, one swing, one memory at a time.
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