Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has long been regarded as the face of the Toronto Blue Jays, a central figure in the franchise’s identity and long-term plans. However, as the 2025 MLB season begins, his future with the team is shrouded in uncertainty. The 26-year-old power hitter is entering the final year of his contract, and all signs indicate that he is preparing to test free agency this offseason.
Despite Guerrero’s repeated assertions that he wants to remain with the Blue Jays—stating earlier this spring, “I want to be a Blue Jay for the rest of my career”—he has also been candid about the realities of the business side of baseball. “I’m going to have to listen to 29 more teams,” he admitted, signaling that he is open to weighing all options when the time comes.
Contract negotiations between Guerrero and the Blue Jays reportedly stalled upon his arrival at spring training. The primary sticking point? Although Toronto was willing to match his $500 million asking price over 14 years, a significant portion of the deal included deferred money, reducing its present-day value to approximately $450 million. According to Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi, this discrepancy may have been enough to break talks between the two sides.
Can the Blue Jays afford to risk losing their franchise cornerstone?
While a $50 million gap is no small matter, it pales in comparison to what is at stake for the Blue Jays. The team is already investing heavily, with a payroll exceeding $240 million this season, as well as major financial commitments to recent stadium upgrades. Allowing their most recognizable star to walk over deferred money could be a devastating blow—one that might not sit well with fans or within the organization itself.
The Case for Keeping Guerrero
Guerrero is fresh off an impressive 2024 season in which he posted a .323/.396/.544 slash line, belted 30 home runs, drove in 103 RBIs, and finished sixth in American League MVP voting. His career highlights include a 48-homer campaign in 2021, during which he was the AL MVP runner-up, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s elite offensive talents.
Beyond his on-field production, Guerrero is also one of the sport’s most marketable stars. His presence alone boosts Toronto’s profile, both in terms of fan engagement and commercial appeal. A player of his caliber, still in his prime, does not become available often—and if he hits free agency, he is sure to attract record-breaking offers.
What Happens Next?
With the season underway, the Blue Jays must decide whether to revisit negotiations or risk losing their franchise cornerstone. If Guerrero delivers another standout campaign, his price tag will only rise, making it even harder for Toronto to retain him. The team could attempt to restart talks during the season or prepare for a bidding war in the offseason.
One thing is clear: If the Blue Jays truly value Guerrero as the face of their franchise, they need to act fast before another team secures his services for the long haul.
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