Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Blue Jays: Contract Extension Still in Play
The Toronto Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have yet to agree on a long-term contract extension, but according to reports, there is still optimism that a deal will get done. While Guerrero set a deadline for negotiations before the season began, his ultimate goal remains to stay in Toronto for the long haul.
Former New York Mets general manager Jim Duquette recently analyzed the contract situation on MLB Network Radio. According to Duquette, the gap between Guerrero and the Blue Jays is not insurmountable, and he expects the two sides to eventually reach an agreement.
Why the Blue Jays Want to Lock Up Guerrero Jr.
At just 25 years old, Guerrero Jr. is already one of the most dynamic sluggers in baseball. Since making his MLB debut in 2019, the first baseman has developed into a franchise cornerstone. His MVP-caliber 2021 season, where he slashed .311/.401/.601 with 48 home runs and 111 RBIs, showcased his immense potential.
Though his numbers dipped slightly in 2022 and 2023, Guerrero remains an elite offensive force. He possesses a rare blend of power, plate discipline, and defensive improvements, making him an invaluable piece for Toronto’s future.
Contract Talks: Where Do Things Stand?
Guerrero’s Stance
Guerrero has repeatedly expressed his desire to stay in Toronto, but he also wants to be fairly compensated for his production. With young stars around the league securing massive long-term deals, Guerrero and his camp are likely seeking a contract north of $250 million over 8-10 years.
Blue Jays’ Perspective
Toronto is well aware of Guerrero’s value but is also balancing payroll concerns and future roster construction. The team has other key players to consider, including Bo Bichette, and must be strategic about how they allocate resources.
Jim Duquette’s Take
Duquette believes that the two sides are not far apart in negotiations. He anticipates that the Blue Jays will eventually agree to a deal, given Guerrero’s importance to the franchise and Toronto’s need to retain homegrown stars.
Comparable Contracts in MLB
To better understand Guerrero’s market value, let’s examine recent deals signed by similar players:
| Player | Team | Contract | AAV (Annual Avg. Value) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Olson | Braves | 8 years, $168M | $21M |
| Rafael Devers | Red Sox | 10 years, $313.5M | $31.35M |
| Freddie Freeman | Dodgers | 6 years, $162M | $27M |
| Pete Alonso (Projected) | TBD | Estimated 8-9 years, $250M+ | ~$30M |
Guerrero’s age, production, and ceiling suggest he will demand a contract closer to Devers than Olson. A deal in the range of 9-10 years, $280-$300 million seems like a reasonable expectation.
What Happens If No Deal Is Reached?
If Toronto fails to extend Guerrero, they will face tough decisions in the coming seasons. Guerrero is currently under team control through 2025, meaning the Blue Jays must decide whether to:
- Let him hit free agency and risk losing him without compensation.
- Trade him before the deadline to get maximum value.
- Extend negotiations into 2025 and potentially sign him next offseason.
: Will Guerrero Stay in Toronto?
While an immediate deal is not in place, there is genuine optimism that Guerrero and the Blue Jays will find common ground. Given his talent, age, and marketability, locking up Guerrero should be a priority for Toronto. If the team is serious about contending long-term, securing their franchise slugger on a multi-year deal is a must.
