Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sidelined by hamstring tightness as Blue Jays adjust lineup

All-Star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was left out of the Toronto Blue Jays' starting lineup for the August 5, 2026 game against the Houston Astros because of right hamstring tightness. Manager John Schneider said Guerrero had been dealing with the issue for some time, gave him a rest, and does not expect a stint on the injured list. Kazuma Okamoto started at first base in Guerrero's place. Guerrero went 0-for-3 with a walk in a 7-2 loss, and his season batting line sits at a career‑low .259 with six home runs, 44 RBIs and a .687 OPS. The Blue Jays, now 53‑61, are struggling in the American League East and remain on the playoff fringe. Guerrero stayed on the bench for the following game against the Chicago Cubs, and the team continues to search for ways to boost its offensive production as the season winds down.