In a recent interview with Toronto-based sports media outlet TheScore, Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. confirmed that he intends to represent the Dominican Republic at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. However, he also left the door open to potentially suiting up for Team Canada in a future tournament before retiring from professional baseball.
When asked about his decision to play for the Dominican Republic over Canada, Guerrero explained his reasoning:
“That’s a good question. I was born in Canada, but I grew up in the Dominican Republic. My dad never went to a World Baseball Classic. He told me as a kid that I should represent the Dominican if I ever got a chance to do it. I grew up with that. So, I think I will play with the Dominicans, but maybe if I’m not retired, I will play with Canada one day.”
Guerrero was born in Montreal, Quebec, during his father’s tenure with the Montreal Expos, but was raised in Santiago, Dominican Republic, by his mother. While eligible to represent both nations, he has prioritized playing with the Dominican Republic. He was originally expected to play for them in the 2023 tournament, but missed out due to injury. This time, barring any setbacks, he is expected to be the team’s starting first baseman.
As of the 2025 MLB season, Guerrero is batting .286/.390/.442 with 9 home runs. While those numbers are slightly down from his stellar 2024 season—when he hit .323/.396/.544 with 30 home runs—they remain solid. His 2024 performance was the second-best of his career, behind only his MVP runner-up campaign in 2021.
Following his strong 2024 showing, Guerrero signed a massive 14-year, $500 million contract extension with the Blue Jays, ensuring he remains a fixture in Toronto for the foreseeable future. Even with his numbers being slightly down this season, he is expected to play a significant role for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
WBN MLB: https://worldbaseball.com/league/mlb/
WBN WBC: https://worldbaseball.com/league/wbc/
Photo: Toronto Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. looks out during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, Calif., Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Alex Gallardo)
