Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Toronto Blue Jays’ star first baseman, has been a cornerstone of the franchise since his debut in 2019. Over the years, he has expressed a strong desire to remain with the team for the entirety of his career. In a 2022 interview, Guerrero stated, “I would love to play here my entire career.”
In January 2025, Guerrero and the Blue Jays avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $28.5 million deal, marking the third-largest salary for an arbitration-eligible player in MLB history. This agreement underscored the mutual commitment between Guerrero and the organization.
However, as the 2025 season approaches, contract negotiations have become a focal point. Reports indicate that Guerrero has set a firm deadline for the Blue Jays to present a satisfactory long-term offer, emphasizing his readiness to commit but expressing dissatisfaction with initial proposals. He has reportedly given the team until the first full day of Spring Training to finalize an extension, after which he plans to cease negotiations.
The Blue Jays’ front office acknowledges the significance of securing Guerrero’s future with the team. General Manager Ross Atkins has emphasized the exceptional contributions of both Guerrero and teammate Bo Bichette, expressing hope for their continued association with the franchise.
As the deadline looms, the Blue Jays face a pivotal decision. Securing Guerrero with a long-term contract would not only solidify the team’s core but also signal a commitment to sustained competitiveness in the league. The outcome of these negotiations will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the franchise’s future trajectory.