The image feels timeless now — a three-year-old Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the turf at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium in 2002, throwing warm-up tosses with the Expos before a game, mirroring the swing and energy that would one day define his career.
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Two decades later, that same child — now an All-Star, postseason anchor, and international ambassador for the sport — is preparing to headline a new kind of stage. On December 6, 2025, Guerrero will lead the La Gente del Barrio Celebrity Softball Game and Home Run Derby at loanDepot Park in Miami, an event blending star power, culture, and community impact under one roof.
The event, produced by La Gente del Barrio Foundation and powered by Guerrero’s own V27 Foundation, will bring together MLB stars, entertainers, and local figures for an afternoon of entertainment with purpose. Proceeds will benefit both foundations and partner programs focused on youth empowerment, sports access, and community development throughout the Americas.
In true Guerrero fashion, the long-ball legacy runs deep.
Vladimir Guerrero Sr., now 49, still makes headlines of his own — recently posting a clip from his hometown of Nizao in the Dominican Republic, where he crushed a softball homer that never seemed to land. Wearing his classic Expos No. 27 jersey, he turned, admired the shot, and smiled.
It was pure nostalgia — and a reminder that, whether in Montreal or Miami, the Guerrero swing is forever one of baseball’s most joyful sights.
🎟️ loanDepot Park seating map for La Gente del Barrio Celebrity Softball Game & Home Run Derby — Saturday, December 6, 2025. Sections start at $32.00.
Matt Tallarini, World Baseball Network’s Chief Correspondent, will be on-site covering the festivities and highlighting the MLB stars involved in the event.
Tallarini, who continues to expand WBN’s MLB coverage and player access, described the Miami showcase as “a fan-first celebration of baseball — Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on center stage, joined by a mix of big-league talent and local celebrities. It’s pure fun, pure community, and it’s happening at the same park that will host the World Baseball Classic.”
Guerrero, now deep in Toronto’s playoff run, remains one of the sport’s most dynamic global figures — born in Montreal, raised in the Dominican Republic, and representing both baseball’s future and its deep international roots. His confirmed commitment to play for the Dominican Republic at the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park only heightens the anticipation.
The same field that will host the Dominican Republic’s pool play next March will first echo with music, laughter, and towering home runs this December — all for a cause that reflects the heart of the global game.
Born in the streets. Built by the people.
La Gente del Barrio isn’t just hosting a game — it’s leading a movement. What began as street pride has become a cultural force, uniting MLB stars, musicians, and fans through community and purpose.
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, that energy hits loanDepot Park for the Celebrity Softball Game & Home Run Derby, headlined by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and his V27 Foundation.
Big swings. Bigger stars. All for a cause.
Every ticket sold supports the La Gente del Barrio Foundation, the V27 Foundation, and charitable partners creating opportunities for youth and families across the Americas. From the diamond to the block, this is baseball with heart.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Now — Support a Great Cause →
💥 1:00 PM Celebrity Softball Game
💥 4:00 PM Home Run Derby
📍 loanDepot Park — Miami, Florida
