Toronto Blue Jays Unveil Majestic Vladimir Guerrero Statue Outside Stadium — A Towering Tribute to the Legendary Slugger Now Greets Fans, Immortalizing His Impact and Inspiring Generations as They Enter the Heart of Toronto Baseball History
In a historic and emotional ceremony that captured the hearts of fans, players, and baseball enthusiasts across the country, the Toronto Blue Jays have officially unveiled a magnificent statue of franchise icon Vladimir Guerrero outside Rogers Centre. The towering bronze figure, immortalizing Guerrero in his signature swing, now stands proudly at the entrance of the stadium, a timeless reminder of his incredible legacy, influence, and lasting contributions to the game of baseball in Toronto and beyond.
The event drew thousands of fans, many of whom wore vintage Guerrero jerseys and carried signs thanking him for his unforgettable moments in a Blue Jays uniform. Children, parents, and longtime supporters gathered as the statue was revealed under a cascade of blue and white confetti, accompanied by a roar of applause and chants of “Vlad! Vlad! Vlad!” echoing through the streets.
Though Guerrero spent the early part of his Hall of Fame career with the Montreal Expos and Los Angeles Angels, his influence in Toronto grew immensely through his son, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who has become one of the current generation’s most beloved players. Yet, this statue is not just about bloodlines — it’s about the Guerrero name itself, and the electric energy and unmatched passion it brought to the sport in Canada.
Blue Jays President Mark Shapiro spoke at the unveiling, saying, “This statue represents more than a player. It represents power, pride, and perseverance. Vladimir Guerrero Sr. gave everything to the game and inspired an entire generation of Dominican and Canadian athletes. His presence outside our stadium ensures his story will never be forgotten.”
Crafted by renowned Canadian sculptor Jean-Pierre Larose, the statue captures Guerrero in mid-swing — a moment symbolic of the raw power, unpredictability, and joy he brought to the game. With his front foot planted and bat in motion, the sculpture embodies his fearless approach at the plate, where he was known to hit balls far outside the strike zone with jaw-dropping success. The detailing — from his iconic smile to the motion in his jersey — brings the statue to life, making it one of the most lifelike and engaging sports monuments in North America.
Vladimir Guerrero himself was in attendance, overcome with emotion. Speaking in both Spanish and English, he said, “To see myself honored in this way, in a country that gave me and my family so much love, is something I could have never imagined. This statue is for every fan who cheered for me, and for every kid who dreams of playing in the big leagues.”
He also gave special thanks to his son, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who stood proudly beside him throughout the ceremony. “You carry this legacy now,” he said, “and I’m proud to see how you’ve honored it with class and passion.”
Guerrero Jr., visibly moved, responded with a hug and brief remarks: “My father gave me everything — not just as a baseball player, but as a man. I walk past this statue now not just as a Blue Jay, but as his son, and I’m honored.”
The decision to erect the statue was made following a public vote and campaign that spanned several years. Fans, historians, and former teammates all supported the initiative, calling for greater recognition of the Guerrero family’s influence in Canadian baseball. The campaign gained even more momentum after Guerrero’s induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018, and his son’s breakout season with the Jays in 2021.
Outside the stadium, fans took selfies with the statue, left flowers and baseballs at its base, and shared personal memories of watching Guerrero play. One fan, Teresa Lin, who attended with her teenage son, said, “I watched him play with my dad when I was a girl. Now I’m here with my own son, and we’re celebrating this together. It’s a full-circle moment.”
The unveiling also marks a broader initiative by the Blue Jays organization to celebrate its legacy and honor the greats who helped shape the franchise. Plans are underway to add more statues in the coming years, with other legends such as Carlos Delgado, Roy Halladay, and Roberto Alomar under consideration.
For now, though, the spotlight shines brightly on Vladimir Guerrero Sr., whose statue will greet generations of fans as they enter Rogers Centre. It serves as both a destination and a declaration — a tribute to the past and an inspiration for the future.
As the sun set behind the stadium, casting a golden glow on the bronze figure of Guerrero mid-swing, one thing became abundantly clear: legends never fade — they’re forged in history, immortalized in bronze, and forever etched in the hearts of fans.
And for anyone walking through the gates of the Rogers Centre from this day forward, Vladimir Guerrero’s presence will be impossible to miss — a constant remind
er that greatness lives on.