Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has not made any official announcements about leaving the Toronto Blue Jays. In fact, recent developments suggest that the team’s management is optimistic about signing him to a long-term extension.
Guerrero’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and he’ll be eligible for free agency. However, both Guerrero and the Blue Jays’ management have expressed interest in keeping him with the team.
Toronto Blue Jays CEO Mark Shapiro recently stated that he expects to sign Guerrero to an extension, citing a “clear alignment” between the team’s goals and Guerrero’s desire to play his entire career with the Blue Jays ¹. Shapiro’s comments suggest that the team is willing to work with Guerrero to find a mutually beneficial agreement.
Guerrero himself has indicated that he’s open to hearing the Blue Jays out if they present a new offer. While he didn’t provide a specific timeline for negotiations, his comments suggest that he’s willing to consider an extension ¹.
The main sticking point in negotiations appears to be the contract value. Guerrero reportedly sought a 14- or 15-year deal worth under $600 million, with a net present value of $500 million ¹. The Blue Jays’ most recent offer was reportedly close to $500 million, but with deferred money that reduced the present-day value to around $450 million ¹.
Despite the gap in negotiations, Shapiro’s comments and Guerrero’s willingness to listen to new offers suggest that a deal can still be reached. The Blue Jays are reportedly preparing a new offer for Guerrero, which could potentially bridge the gap between the two parties ¹.
It’s worth noting that Guerrero’s situation is different from other high-profile free agents. He’s expressed a strong desire to stay with the Blue Jays, and the team’s management is eager to keep him. While the contract negotiations may be complex, the mutual interest between Guerrero and the Blue Jays provides a strong foundation for a potential deal.
In the meantime, Guerrero will focus on the upcoming season, where he’ll earn $28.5 million in the final year of his current contract ¹. The Blue Jays will likely continue to negotiate with Guerrero’s agents, seeking a deal that works for both parties.
Ultimately, the outcome of Guerrero’s contract negotiations will have significant implications for the Blue Jays’ future. If they can sign him to a long-term extension, it will provide stability and continuity for the team. However, if negotiations break down, the Blue Jays may need to consider alternative options, such as trading Guerrero or preparing for life without him.
For now, the situation remains fluid, with both Guerrero and the Blue Jays expressing optimism about a potential deal. As the season approaches, fans will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds ² ³ ⁴.
