Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. found himself on the receiving end of some Bronx boos after his signature home run celebration routine riled up Yankee Stadium fans on Saturday night.
Guerrero Jr. is known for his distinct post-home run gestures as he circles the bases. This includes a playful hop near second base and a now-famous shushing motion as he passes third. However, some Yankee Stadium fans took offense to the shush on Saturday, despite the Blue Jays trailing by seven runs at the time of his home run.
Speaking through a translator after the Blue Jays’ 9-8 loss, Guerrero Jr. clarified his celebration, stating it’s a consistent routine he performs regardless of the score.
In the seventh inning, with the Blue Jays down 9-2, Guerrero Jr. launched a solo home run to right-center field against Yankees pitcher Luke Weaver. This marked his second homer of the young season. Following the blast, the Toronto star acknowledged the crowd between first and second base, then hopped near shortstop as usual before raising a finger to his lips as he crossed third – the gesture that sparked the boos.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider defended Guerrero Jr.’s routine, noting it’s a familiar part of his celebration. He jokingly added that “they don’t boo unknown players in New York,” implying fans were simply reacting to a player they know can hurt them.
This isn’t the first time Guerrero Jr. has received boos at Yankee Stadium for his celebratory shush. A similar situation occurred during a home run by Corey Kluber in May 2021.
The Toronto hitter explained that he began this celebration routine after the 2020 season and has continued it ever since. He emphasized his belief in enjoying the moment after hitting a home run. While players have different styles, like jumping or hopping, Guerrero Jr. prefers his own unique gestures.
Despite the mixed reception on Saturday, Guerrero Jr. seems to be finding his groove at the plate. Both his home runs this season have been solo shots, resulting in his only RBIs so far. Though his overall batting average sits at .182, he felt more comfortable during Saturday’s game, particularly in his final three at-bats. It appears Yankee Stadium boos might not be enough to faze the young star.
Yankees fans shoot Guerrero down
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