ARLINGTON -- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left Sunday’s game against the Rangers in the fourth inning with what the team described as left lower back stiffness.
Guerrero, playing first base and hitting No. 2 in the lineup, had a base hit in two plate appearances for the Blue Jays, who are trying to keep alive their American League Wild Card hopes in the series finale at Globe Life Field. Toronto entered the game three games back of the White Sox for the final postseason berth and as losers in four of its past five games.
Myles Straw entered the game in his place in the lineup.
Guerrero had a stint on the seven-day concussion IL in August after a collision with Yankees shortstop George Lombard. He has also dealt with back and hamstring trouble during the season but has not needed time on the IL for either.
Guerrero has stepped up when the Blue Jays have needed him most, batting .292 with two home runs -- including his first of the season at Rogers Centre --, eight RBIs and a .796 OPS in 17 games in September. He also ranks second in the majors at first base with 10 defensive runs saved.