Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Declines to Participate in 2026 MLB ASG, Blue Jays Star Explains Decision

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. revealed that he won't participate in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game despite being selected as a starter on Saturday.

"Very grateful to everyone who voted for me.. but at this time, very respectfully I'm declining to go," Guerrero said, according to TV sports broadcaster Hazel Mae.

The six-time All-Star has been dealing with discomfort in his back, per Mae.

Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz will start for the American League in place of Guerrero.

Guerrero has appeared in 84 of Toronto's first 89 games this season, although he's been hampered by lingering back issues as of late.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider confirmed that he's taking a cautious approach with the 27-year-old's playing time due to his health.

"I don't want to push it with him," Schneider said Tuesday, per MLB.com's Keegan Matheson. "He's been working a lot and I think that plays into how he's feeling. He's taken a lot of swings over the last week or week and a half. With where he was yesterday and making progress, albeit with just the single to right, I think he's where we want him to be. He's really close, so I didn't want to set him back."

After Guerrero wrapped up a stellar 2025 campaign in which he earned ALCS MVP honors while helping Toronto make a World Series appearance, he hasn't been as productive at the plate this season.

He's hitting .265 with four home runs, 13 doubles and 35 RBI in 309 at-bats. Guerrero's .692 OPS represents a career-low mark.

The Blue Jays currently sit at No. 3 in the AL East standings with a 42-47 record, although they're just three games back from the final AL Wild Card spot.

As Toronto looks to improve throughout the second half of the year and chase a postseason berth, Guerrero will skip the All-Star Game.