Here's why John Schneider won't drop Guerrero in the lineup

Key Points:

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is experiencing a significant performance drop in the 2026 season, batting .262 with a .689 OPS and seven home runs, none at home, after a stellar 2025 postseason.
• Despite his struggles, Blue Jays manager John Schneider has kept Guerrero in the second or third spot in the lineup, emphasizing the team's offensive structure built around him as the focal point.
• Schneider has considered moving Guerrero down the order but fears it wouldn't improve his performance or the team's dynamics, given the lack of other consistent power hitters due to injuries and underperformance.
• The manager's approach contrasts with how he handles other players like Bo Bichette, indicating a more cautious, "feel-based" strategy with Guerrero rooted in their long-standing relationship.
• This lineup decision has become a central and controversial topic for the Blue Jays in 2026, highlighting the tension between player performance, team strategy, and leadership choices.