Vladimir Guerrero Jr. wins inaugural award for his showmanship

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) reacts after an inning-ending double play during seventh inning Game 7 World Series playoff MLB baseball action against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Toronto on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s showmanship, both on and off the diamond, is being recognized with an award in his field, so to speak.

The Blue Jays first baseman, whose swagger, flair and cheeky grin are hard to ignore, has won the inaugural Entertainer of the Year at the MLB Awards.

The ceremony took place Thursday night at the Chelsea Theater in Las Vegas. Vladdy wasn’t around to pick up the award in person, and instead sent his Godfather and close pal, Pedro Martinez, to accept it in his place.

Martinez ended his speech by telling the crowd “Daaaa Yankees lose,” from the stage, a reference to his former Boston Red Sox teammate David Ortiz’s infamous catchphrase. Guerrero Jr. and Ortiz went viral after the Blue Jays beat New York in the American League Division Series by chanting the phrase in unison.

Guerrero Jr. is one of the Jays’ star players, helping them land in the World Series this year.

He signed a US$500-million, 14-year contract extension earlier this year, which means that crowds can look forward to seeing more of the Vladdy show for some time. Whether it’s writing “Dios” in the dirt with his bat before each plate appearance, showing off his style en route to the stadium, or nonchalantly flipping his bat after batting a grand slam, Guerrero Jr. can reliably put on a great show.