On January 20, 2009, news agencies reported that the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are intending to block Vladimir Guerrero from participating in the World Baseball Classic. Guerrero is recovering from off season knee surgery.Los Angeles Times: Angels don't want Vladimir Guerrero playing in World Baseball Classic (January 20, 2009)

1. Full name: Vladimir Alvino Guerrero
2. Born: February 9, 1976
3. Birthplace: Don Gregorio, Nizao, Dominican Republic
4. Height: 6'3"
5. Weight: 235 lbs
6. Bats: Right
7. Throws: Right
8. Rookie Year: 1996
9. 2004: American League MVP
10. 2007 All-Star Starter
11. 2007: Wins All-Star Game Home Run Derby

During the 1997 season, Guerrero joined the Expos for 90 major league games, and was sixth in voting for the MLB Rookie of the Year Award. Guerrero earned a full roster spot in the 1998 season, playing in 159 games, hitting 108 runs and finishing with a .324 batting average.

Guerrero earned several honors following the 1999 season, earning his first of eight MLB All-Star Game selections and his first of seven Silver Slugger Awards. He continued with the Expos over the next few years, playing in nearly every regular season game until an injury benched him in 2003.

On October 10, 2008, Vladimir Guerrero underwent surgery on his left knee. The surgery was on his left medial meniscus and was performed in Vail, Colorado. Dr. Richard Steadman peformed the operation. He is not expected to miss any time, and will reportedly be ready for the start of Spring Training for the 2009 season.MLB.com: Surgery won't delay Guerrero's spring

On November 8, 2008, the Los Angeles Times reported that contract extension talks with Vladimir Guerrero and the Angels were tabled. This increases the possibility that Guerrero will test the free agent market in 2010. The Angels exercised a $15 million dollar option for the 2009 season.Los Angeles Times: Angels table contract talks (November 8, 2008)

• 1976: Born February 9
• 1996: Debut with Montreal Expos
• 1999-2002: National League All-Star
• 2004: Signs with Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
• 2004-2006: American League All-Star
• 2004: American League Most Valuable Player
• 2007: All-Star Starter
• 2007: Wins All-Star Weekend Home Run Derby