Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is struggling with his swing setup, according to Albert Pujols. On June 26, 2026, Pujols broke down the timing issue hurting Guerrero Jr. on an MLB Network appearance.
What's wrong with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s swing?
Pujols focused on Guerrero Jr.'s hands and bat path, stating that when he sees the tip of the bat, it means he's taking his hands too far back.
Why it matters for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Guerrero Jr. is still producing a .276/.358/.360 slash line with four home runs and 34 RBI, but his power has not matched his usual standard. He hit 23 home runs and posted a 4.6 WAR last season.
What comes next for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.?
The Toronto Blue Jays need Guerrero Jr. to rediscover his power, especially with the team sitting at 39-43, third in the AL East. Pujols explained that extra bat wrap can make Guerrero Jr.'s swing too long against fastballs.
The key fix is better separation, keeping the bat ready and allowing Guerrero Jr. to attack the right pitch. Guerrero Jr. remains central to the Blue Jays' push for stability after making the World Series last season.
The Blue Jays have won five of their last 10 games, and Guerrero Jr.'s performance is urgent. Pujols pointed to the separation Guerrero Jr. needs before launch, stating that he needs to have that little separation to be ready to hit.
Guerrero Jr.'s 0.7 WAR this year makes the gap feel loud for the Blue Jays' five-time All-Star. The concern is not just mechanical, but also urgent, with the team chasing stability.
Albert Pujols, the future Mets manager, believes that one small adjustment could wake up Guerrero Jr.'s big bat. Guerrero Jr. could still become the Blue Jays' second-half engine, but he needs to rediscover his power