Vladimir Guerrero’s life from Don Gregorio to Cooperstown – in video

Vladimir Guerrero will enter the ranks of the immortal this weekend when he is, officially, inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown.

Over the past year, La Vida Baseball has been along for the magical ride with Vladi. From receiving the call from Jeff Idelson, the president of the Hall, to his first trip to Cooperstown after being voted in, we were there. We’ve also collected thoughts from current and former players, managers, teammates and others congratulating him on this incredible, historic achievement.

First, the call.

Another Angels great, Albert Pujols, congratulates Vlad.

Growing up, Vlad had players he wanted to emulate on the field just like anyone else.

He worked hard off the field, too.

The owner of the Angels, Arte Moreno, was thrilled that Vlad was voted in.

As was the Dominican Republic, which gave him a hero’s welcome. Something Vladi will never forget. Photographer Jean Fruth tells that story here.

A quiet man off the field, Vlad let his bat do the talking during games.

One Dominican legend to another. The man who penciled Vladi into the lineup for the first time, Felipe Alou, shares his congratulations as well.

Vladi’s mom, Altagracia, was a huge factor in his career.

She was also a big part of the lives of hundreds of other Latino players, as Ozzie Guillén recalls.

Current players are happy for Vlad.

Nelson Cruz remembers his first time at Vlad’s house.

Everyone started somewhere. Vlad recalls his earliest baseball memories.

Three current Philadelphia Phillies (“Los Compadres”) tell us how they feel about Vladi.

More than anything else, Vladi is a proud father of one of the top prospects in the game today.

Finally, we asked some current stars – and the man himself – who was better: Expos Vladi or Angels Vladi. The dugout debated. Here are the opinions.

Throughout Induction Weekend, we’ll be on social media posting updates from Cooperstown so follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for videos from Induction Sunday and look for a full recap on Monday at LaVidaBaseball.com.