The Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has a personal tutor in Donnie Baseball

DUNEDIN, Fla.—Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and bench coach Don Mattingly have been tied at the hip during the early stages of spring training

Mattingly, a former manager with the Miami Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers, will help manager John Schneider with in-game strategy and Guerrero with his work at first base.

The 61-year-old Mattingly starred with the New York Yankees in the 1980s and ’90s, winning nine gold gloves in a 14-year career. He’s considered among the best defenders to play the game at first.

That should prove helpful to Guerrero, who has a gold glove but has only been playing the position for the last two-and-a-half years.

“Since he got here, he got very close to me, in the same way that I got close to him,” Guerrero said through an interpreter Friday. “Of course, I’m trying to get some advice from him, especially at first base. He can give me some tips about how to defend my position when there are runners on base. He has been great to me.”

A personal coach for Guerrero is a luxury the Jays didn’t have before. Third base coach Luis Rivera works with the infielders and has knowledge about every spot, but his areas of expertise are second, shortstop and third. First base requires a skill set.

That doesn’t mean Rivera did anything wrong. Guerrero’s improved defence was one of the Jays’ most positive storylines last season.

Waiting on Kirk

Alejandro Kirk has yet to report to spring training as he awaits the birth of his child.

“We’re still on baby watch,” Schneider said. “I thought it was going to be (Thursday). My last update this morning was, ‘Not quite yet.’ ”

Kirk’s stint in camp should be short. The 24-year-old is scheduled to join Mexico on March 6 to begin workouts for the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

Ryu on the mend

The Jays seem confident left-hander Hyun Jin Ryu will return at some point this season.

Ryu underwent Tommy John surgery last June to repair a torn ligament in his left elbow. Recovery typically takes at least 12 months, which would seem to rule out the former No. 1 pitcher until at least the all-star break.

Anything the Jays get out of Ryu this season would have to be considered a bonus considering the uncertainty of his health.

“I don’t want to discuss timelines for him, but we’re exceptionally encouraged with where he is in his recovery,” Jays general manager Ross Atkins said.

Ryu is entering the final season of a four-year deal worth $80 million (U.S.). His injury has left Yusei Kikuchi and Mitch White to battle it out for the final spot in the rotation. White is still working his way back from an impinged shoulder.

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