Coming off a trip to the World Series and a playoff run for the ages, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is ready to turn the page to 2026.
While there will be plenty to reflect upon as the Toronto Blue Jays celebrate their American League and division titles before Friday's opening-day matchup, Guerrero said Thursday his focus is on beginning the new season strong.
"I'm not thinking of the post-season last year anymore," he told reporters through interpreter Hector Lebron at Rogers Centre. "Obviously, it was great. But right now, I'm very focused on this season, working very hard and giving everything I have for my teammates."
After delivering a strong regular season last summer for the Blue Jays, Guerrero took a superstar leap in October, slashing .397/.494/.795 with eight home runs in 18 playoff games.
Despite his forward-looking mentality on the eve of his eighth big-league campaign, the Blue Jays first baseman did admit that he will soak in the emotion of Friday's banner-raising ceremony.
"The emotions are going to be there. They're going to be great emotions, especially when I see that banner going down," Guerrero said. "It's going to be great. Obviously, (it) didn't finish the way we wanted to, but it's part of the game. I will definitely have some emotions (tomorrow)."
It will be a celebration for Toronto and Canada at large, as the Blue Jays enter a season with a pennant to defend for the first time since 1994. And with expectations raised, Guerrero wants to take things one day at a time in Toronto's quest to take the next step in 2026.
"The motivation's definitely there (to win the World Series)," the 27-year-old said. "It's going to be there every day. As of right now, I'm thinking of tomorrow's game, then the next game, and then the next game.
"Then, when we get to October, then we'll think about (winning it all). But my motivation is there, 100 per cent."
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