The Toronto Blue Jays tried to extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr. this offseason but ultimately failed to agree on a deal before his self-imposed spring training deadline. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal revealed that Guerrero is looking for $500 million in present value, and, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman, the Blue Jays offered him near that, but with heavy deferrals.
The Blue Jays are reportedly preparing to make him an offer closer to that, but his demands could quickly change if the Blue Jays are unable to strike a deal soon. During an interview with Spanish-language journalist Yancen Pujols, Guerrero noted he is not Juan Soto, nor did he ask for the type of money Soto got. However, he revealed that if he hits free agency after an MVP-type season, his price tag could skyrocket past $700 million.
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Guerrero even noted that he believes his floor will be $500 million in free agency. The Blue Jays’ best chance at keeping Guererro around is extending him now, before the season starts. If he has an MVP season, they may not be able to afford him at all as a free agent.
The Blue Jays have not had much success landing superstars in free agency. Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro is confident the team will come to terms on an extension with Guerrero.
“I think we’re going to sign him. I think we’re going to extend him,” Shapiro told Canadian media, according to The Athletic.
Guerrero has noted his desire to finish his career in Toronto, but if the Blue Jays have to get into a bidding war for his services, the chances of him leaving increase drastically.
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