Baseball
Toronto Blue Jays Manager John Schneider is set to make a return to the Home Run Derby this year and is taking on the role of pitcher for his star player, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. This marks Schneider's second appearance in the prestigious event, having previously thrown to Guerrero Jr. in 2019.
Schneider's journey into the Home Run Derby realm began when he joined the Blue Jays organization as a minor-league coach back in 2008.
John Scheider's responsibilities included throwing batting practice, a role he continues to fulfill to this day. The manager attributes his extensive experience in pitching to Guerrero Jr.'s specific preferences and understanding of how to establish a productive rhythm.
John Schneider Delivered Postseason Clinch Speech in 2022. SOURCE: Youtube- Toronto Blue Jays "I've been throwing BP for a long time," Schneider shared. "I know what Vladdy likes, and I know how to get him in a good rhythm."
Guerrero Jr. expressed his excitement at having Schneider back as his designated pitcher as the defending Home Run Derby champion and one of the top contenders this year. He praised Schneider as the best batting practice pitcher in the game and emphasized their strong rapport.
"John knows how to get me going," Guerrero Jr. remarked. "He's the best BP pitcher in the game."
The Home Run Derby which is scheduled for July 11, will take place at T-Mobile Park in Seattle. Guerrero Jr. and Schneider will become the first Canadian duo to participate in the event, adding an extra layer of significance to their involvement.
Schneider expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to contribute to the Home Run Derby once again. "It's going to be a lot of fun," he said. "I'm just excited to be a part of it."
Joining Guerrero Jr. and Schneider in the Home Run Derby are a talented group of participants, including Pete Alonso (New York Mets), Ronald Acuna Jr. (Atlanta Braves), Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers), Corey Seager (Texas Rangers), Juan Soto (Washington Nationals), Kyle Schwarber (Philadelphia Phillies), Trey Mancini (Baltimore Orioles), and Albert Pujols (St. Louis Cardinals).
Baseball enthusiasts can catch the live broadcast of the Home Run Derby on ESPN at 8:00 PM Eastern Time
