Vladimir Guerrero Jr. says he was initially moved to first base due to being overweight

Guerrero began his MLB career as a third baseman in 2019.

While his bat came alive almost immediately, his defense was often criticized and, at times, borderline ugly.

Many felt that his skills would be better utilized across the diamond at first base.

That move happened before the 2020 season.

After playing mostly at first for the past four years, with a few partial appearances at third in both 2021 and 2022, Guerrero started 12 games at third base last season.

Vlad still calls third base his favourite and preferred position, and now he's opening up about why he was moved to first in the first place.

The decision was influenced by former Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo.

After Guerrero's defensive struggles in 2019, Vlad claims Montoyo told him during Spring Training that he was being shifted to first base as punishment for being overweight.

Guerrero, who weighed close to 300 pounds at the time, acknowledges that he wasn't in the best shape, especially during the pandemic.

Now weighing in at 243 pounds-more than 40 pounds lighter than he was five years ago-Guerrero feels ready and willing to spend more time at the hot corner.

Still, many fans and analysts believe Guerrero is better suited to first base. Even with his weight loss, concerns linger about his agility, and some question whether he's quick enough to play third base every day.

While he might get the odd appearance at third, as it stands, barring a potential acquisition of a player like Polar Bear Pete Alonso, Vlad is expected to open the season once again at first base, with Gold Glove finalist Ernie Clement manning third.