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Three landing spots for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Three landing spots for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

 The next few weeks may determine the Toronto Blue Jays' future.

The Blue Jays are hovering around .500, 15 games out of first in the American League East. However, they are just three games out of the final wild-card spot, making a playoff push possible. It is just a matter of how the Blue Jays perform over the next few weeks.

Should the Blue Jays struggle, they could be one of the more intriguing sellers on the market. While their expiring contracts would interest contenders, other unexpected moves could bring back a larger haul. 

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com suggested that first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could end up on the trade block given his $19.9 million salary. General manager Ross Atkins said on MLB Network Radio that the goal is to extend both Guerrero and shortstop Bo Bichette, but their salary demands will be a factor.

Where could Guerrero land if he is put on the trade block? Let's look at three possible destinations.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs are going to be linked to every first baseman that could be on the trade block. However, the Cubs have actually been specifically linked to Guerrero as Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that team officials have privately discussed the possibility of trading for the Blue Jays first baseman.

Guerrero would seemingly be a perfect fit. Not only would he fill the hole at first base but he would be part of the roster in 2025 as well. Guerrero would cause a domino effect, potentially pushing either Christopher Morel or Michael Busch into their best defensive position - the designated hitter role.

San Francisco Giants

The Giants have been trying to add an impact bat for years. Third baseman Matt Chapman has been a solid addition to the lineup but the Giants need more if they are going to make a push for a playoff spot.

San Francisco an additional reason to consider such a trade. The Giants have been willing to spend on free agents such as Aaron Judge and Carlos Correa, but have been unable to complete a deal. A possible extension for Guerrero would fit in their budget, giving the Giants the type of hitter they have been searching for.

Seattle Mariners

The Mariners already have several pieces to a possible World Series winning puzzle. Their starting rotation is arguably the best in the majors and Andres Munoz has been excellent in the ninth inning. The problem is that the Mariners' offense has let the pitching staff down.

Guerrero could be a difference maker. Although he is not the power hitter that the Mariners specifically need, he is still a solid hitter. His presence would also allow injured first baseman Ty France to play elsewhere - he has over 50 games at second and third in his career. As second baseman Jorge Polanco struggled before landing on the injured list, Guerrero could impact the lineup at multiple positions.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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