The New York Yankees' questionable defense led to a costly run for the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday.

The Yankees were clinging to a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the sixth inning with one out and runners on first and second. Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer hit what appeared to be an easy double-play ball with a high chopper to third on Gerrit Cole's 3-1 offering. Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon got the force out at third before firing to first to attempt to get out of the inning.

Everything went wrong at that point. McMahon's throw came in a bit low with first baseman Luis Garcia Jr. attempting to scoop the ball for the out. In doing so, he lost his glove and sent the ball down the first base line.

As no one was covering third, Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. attempted to advance. Garcia threw to third, where Yankees shortstop George Lombard attempted to field the wild throw. Instead, he kneed Guerrero in the face as he attempted to slide. Guerrero was able to score on the error, but did not return to the game afterward.

Blue Jays get costly win over Yankees with Vladimir Guerrero Jr injury

Although the Blue Jays held on for a 3-1 victory, Guerrero is the bigger concern. It is unknown as to the severity of his injury or his status going forward.

The 2026 season has been a lost year for Guerrero and the Blue Jays. The Blue Jays were expected to contend for the World Series after falling agonizingly short of a championship in 2025 but have a 60-64 record after Friday's victory. 

Guerrero, meanwhile, entered Friday with a disappointing .262/.337/.356 batting line over his 483 plate appearances entering Friday, hitting seven homers and 19 doubles. He is also one of three players to qualify for the batting title who have not hit a home run at home, joining outfielder Chandler Simpson and infielder Nasim Nunez.