(Dunedin) As Vladimir Guerrero Jr. set foot on Field 1 of the Toronto Blue Jays spring complex, one of his teammates joked to the team: “Vladdy is here! We can start “.
Posted yesterday at 5:32 p.m.
The players laughed at the remark, ended their conversations and got into position to begin batting practice. Although some players – including Guerrero – arrived on Friday, many entered on Sunday.
Manager Charlie Montoyo couldn’t hide his excitement, chatting with players, reporters, and team staff while watching batting practice as 90s hip-hop music played from a loudspeaker. placed nearby.
“I’m not just a manager, I’m also a baseball fan,” Montoyo noted with his mask under his chin. “It’s not a videoconference anymore, I see the guys in real life and they all look ready and that makes me even happier. »
Major League Baseball cut ties with its players Dec. 2, preventing managers and coaches from speaking with players for months. Major League Baseball officials and the Players’ Association ended a lockout on Thursday that could have led to the season being cut or canceled.
Montoyo, who continued to work with minor league players since they weren’t locked out, said it was difficult not being able to communicate with big team players.
“The one thing I was sure of was that the guys were going to come in good shape because they have a big desire,” Montoyo said. I like this aspect of our team. They are hungry and you have seen everyone, they are impressive. »
Major League Baseball continues to work on developing COVID-19 protocols in preparation for the 2022 season.
When the players arrive, they must first undergo a series of COVID-19 tests and medical examinations before donning the uniform and joining their teammates.
Training camp will officially begin Monday at the team’s new spring compound.