Once celebrated as the face of a new generation of baseball, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was supposed to be Toronto’s next legend. With a last name already etched into the game’s history and a swing as smooth as it was powerful, fans rallied behind him when he burst onto the scene with the Toronto Blue Jays, lighting up the scoreboard and reminding everyone of his Hall of Fame father. But now, in a shocking turn, many fans have turned on him. Social media is filled with criticism, boos have replaced cheers in some stadiums, and the question echoes across baseball: What went wrong?
The Rise of a Star
Let’s not forget the impact Guerrero Jr. made in Toronto. He debuted in 2019 with sky-high expectations and by 2021 had an MVP-caliber season, hitting 48 home runs, leading the league in runs scored and slugging percentage, and helping push the Blue Jays toward contention. He was a force at the plate — one of the most feared hitters in the game.
But greatness also brings pressure, and in recent years, the glow of superstardom seems to have faded — and the criticism has sharpened.
Declining Performance and Conditioning Issues
One of the biggest knocks on Guerrero in recent seasons has been his inconsistency at the plate and questions surrounding his physical conditioning. Fans and analysts alike noticed a drop in power numbers, and with the Blue Jays struggling in the postseason, Guerrero became an easy target for frustration.
While not every season can be an MVP year, many began to accuse him of not staying hungry, coasting on his early success rather than evolving. Pictures and videos circulating online fueled speculation that his offseason work ethic wasn’t where it needed to be. Whether fair or not, in a league that demands year-round discipline, perception can become reality very quickly.
Clubhouse Dynamics and Body Language Concerns
There have also been whispers about Guerrero’s attitude, especially during stretches when the team underperformed. Critics point to his body language on the field, occasionally appearing disengaged, and some fans interpreted this as a lack of leadership or maturity — particularly given his role as one of the team’s cornerstones.
A few former players and insiders suggested Guerrero hadn’t stepped into the clubhouse leadership role many expected him to, especially when veterans like Marcus Semien and Hyun-Jin Ryu moved on. Whether justified or exaggerated, this fueled a narrative that Guerrero lacked the fire or accountability of true franchise players.
Social Media Scrutiny and Public Perception
Social media has played a major role in shifting public sentiment. One video clip or offhand quote can ignite a firestorm — and Guerrero has faced his share. A few poorly timed interviews, comments interpreted as dismissive, and visible frustration after strikeouts or team losses were enough to feed a fanbase hungry for accountability.
Some fans have even gone so far as to label him “entitled” or “disconnected”, claiming he plays with the comfort of a legacy, rather than the grit of a player trying to build his own.
The Legacy Trap
It’s impossible to ignore the shadow of his father, Vladimir Guerrero Sr., a Hall of Famer known for his humble demeanor and freakish talent. For better or worse, Jr. has carried that legacy — but the comparisons haven’t always helped. When he falls short of those expectations, fair or not, it adds to the frustration.
Is the Criticism Fair?
The truth is, Guerrero Jr. is still one of the most talented players in baseball. He’s young, has already accomplished more than most players ever will, and remains capable of turning things around at any moment. But with great talent comes great expectation — and a fanbase in a playoff drought doesn’t easily forgive underperformance, perceived or real.
So why do people now “hate” Vladimir Guerrero Jr.? The answer is layered: declining numbers, fitness questions, leadership expectations, and the weight of legacy — all amplified by a disappointed fanbase and the ruthless nature of modern sports media.
Whether he reclaims the city’s love will depend not just on what he does with his bat, but how he responds in the face of adversity. And in sports, nothing is more powerful than redemption
