Blue Jays reportedly make another offer to star first baseman

The Toronto Blue Jays may be closer to an extension with star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Blue Jays made another offer to Guerrero. However, a gap remains between the two sides.

While details of the latest offer remain unknown, The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal previously reported that Guerrero is seeking a 14-year deal worth $500 million in present value. Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman from the New York Post reported that the Blue Jays' previous offer was for 14 years and $500 million but contained deferrals. According to Shi Davidi from SportsNet, the present value of that offer was approximately $450 million.

Theoretically, a gap of approximately $50 million over that timeframe would be easy to bridge. That would break down to between $3 million and $4 million per year, essentially the cost of a utility infielder. 

The Blue Jays had success locking in players during the offseason. Outfielder Anthony Santander signed a five-year deal to help solidify the middle of the Blue Jays lineup. Catcher Alejandro Kirk recently signed a five-year extension, keeping him in Toronto through 2030. Guerrero is the next logical step.

He is the most critical part of their lineup. The four-time All-Star had another strong showing in 2024, posting a .323/.396/.544 batting line in 697 plate appearances, hitting 30 homers and 44 doubles. 

Guerrero would enter free agency at just 26 years old and still in his prime. The Blue Jays should not let a relatively small amount stand in the way of locking in their young star.