The Toronto Blue Jays are making every effort to secure a long-term contract with their star first baseman, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., before he reports for spring training. The deadline for both sides to finalize a deal is fast approaching, as Guerrero has indicated that he will not engage in contract negotiations once he begins his preparations for the season.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contract with Toronto Blue Jays
Guerrero, who is currently under a $28.5 million salary, will become a free agent following the World Series. The Blue Jays are eager to keep the four-time All-Star with the team, though the process is delicate.
We’ve worked extremely hard on keeping Vlad here for a long time, said Toronto’s general manager, Ross Atkins. The desire is strong, and we will continue to do that. We will never close the door.
Given the star power Guerrero brings to the table, he is expected to be one of the top free agents in the market next fall. This past offseason, Juan Soto set a new benchmark by signing a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets. Guerrero's upcoming free agency has the potential to be just as lucrative.
Everything needs to be factored in, but it needs to be factored in historically and not reactively, Atkins explained. Being disciplined to our valuations, being disciplined to how we think about building the best possible roster, there’s so many variables.
2024 campaign for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Guerrero’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of impressive. The 24-year-old hit .323 with 30 home runs and 103 RBIs, placing him sixth in American League MVP voting.
We all want Vlad to be here, said Blue Jays manager John Schneider. You just keep working toward it and hopefully it happens. He’s got a huge career ahead of him, wherever that may be. We hope it’s here.
Despite the ongoing contract talks, Toronto has made it clear that trading Guerrero is not an option. Shortstop Bo Bichette echoed this sentiment, downplaying any potential distractions.
I don’t think it’s going to hang over the team, Bichette said. Vladdy has always cared about the team first and he’s not going to make that a thing.
In addition to Guerrero’s situation, the Blue Jays have made significant offseason moves, including signing outfielder Anthony Santander to a five-year, $92.5 million deal and acquiring veteran right-hander Max Scherzer with a one-year, $15.5 million contract. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, struggled with injuries last season but remains confident in his ability to bounce back.
I need to be healthy. I need to make my starts, Scherzer said. I’m ramping up to where I need to be. Certain injuries you’re OK with, but I’m not OK with last year. The biggest red flag on me is that back issue, and that’s just not an issue.