Breaking News: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Sets Deadline for Contract Extension Negotiations
Toronto Blue Jays’ star first baseman, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., has established a firm deadline of February 18, 2025, for finalizing a contract extension with the team. If an agreement is not reached by this date, Guerrero intends to test free agency following the upcoming season.
Guerrero, a four-time All-Star and a pivotal figure in the Blue Jays’ lineup, is reportedly seeking a contract in the range of $400 million to $500 million. This expectation is influenced by recent high-profile deals, notably Juan Soto’s record-breaking $765 million contract with the New York Mets.
The Blue Jays have reportedly offered Guerrero an extension worth approximately $340 million, but this figure falls short of his expectations. The looming deadline adds pressure on the Blue Jays’ management to secure their franchise cornerstone and avoid the risk of losing him to free agency.
In the meantime, Guerrero and the Blue Jays have agreed to a one-year, $28.5 million contract for the 2025 season, avoiding arbitration. This agreement marks the third-highest salary for an arbitration-eligible player in MLB history, following Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani.
As the February 18 deadline approaches, the baseball community is closely monitoring the situation, recognizing that the outcome will significantly impact the Blue Jays’ future and the broader MLB landscape.