Blue Jays reportedly set to make another offer to franchise icon

The Toronto Blue Jays and first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. failed to agree to a contract extension by the start of spring training. That missed deadline may not matter.

Insider Hector Gomes reported that the Blue Jays plan to make another offer to Guerrero. Per Gomez, the offer would be between 14 to 15 years and between $550 million and $600 million, which would be closer to his asking price.

Guerrero provided some details regarding negotiations with the Blue Jays earlier in the month. He stated that not only was the Blue Jays offer significantly less than the 15-year, $765 million contract outfielder Juan Soto received from the Mets, but that the offer did not approach $600 million. Guerrero, for his part, said that his counteroffer was also below the $600 million threshold.

Guerrero has emerged as one of the more dangerous hitters in baseball. He posted a stellar .323/.396/.544 batting line in 697 plate appearances in 2024, hitting 30 homers and 44 doubles. A four-time All-Star and the 2021 AL MVP runner-up, Guerrero has worked to become a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman.

Locking Guerrero into a long-term extension would have repercussions beyond the lineup. The Blue Jays have consistently attempted to sign marquee free agents only to be rejected in the final stages. While the Blue Jays were able to sign outfielder Anthony Santander, keeping a superstar in Guerrero could make it easier to attract players north of the border.

The 26-year-old Guerrero would have an impressive resume if he were to reach free agency. The Mets in particular have been linked to Guerrero, who would add another player just entering their prime to pair with Soto. Although the Blue Jays are reportedly willing to come close to what Guerrero had been asking for now, it may already be too late.