The Toronto Blue Jays have tried to land a game-changing slugger twice in the past two winters. Unfortunately for the club, it wasn't able to sign Shohei Ohtani or Juan Soto. Now the Jays must decide whether it's worth committing to first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a lucrative long-term deal.
Guerrero has been very specific with Toronto regarding how much money he wants and a deadline to get a deal done. Things will only get more complicated if the two-time Silver Slugger winner begins 2025 without an extension.
The Blue Jays could send him packing before the trade deadline if they're not viewed as a legitimate postseason contender. But if that doesn't happen, they risk losing a homegrown superstar via free agency.
Which of Toronto's American League East rivals could be the best fit for Guerrero?
The least likely landing spot is the Tampa Bay Rays. They did kick the tires on Soto before he signed with the New York Mets, but committing hundreds of millions to one player isn't part of their recipe for success. The Baltimore Orioles are more of an option with new ownership in place. But if they can't pony up to retain ace Corbin Burnes, would they really be a serious suitor? Baltimore will also have to eventually pay its elite homegrown talent.
An intriguing option is the New York Yankees. By signing Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $12.5 million deal, some believe general manager Brian Cashman is preparing to make a run at Guerrero next winter. Will the right-handed slugger be open to donning pinstripes? Vlad Jr. famously said two years ago he'd never play for the Yankees but softened his stance ahead of the 2024 trade deadline. If he has full control over his next destination, could the Bombers be a legitimate suitor? That remains to be seen.
With all this in mind, one AL East rival that makes the most sense for Guerrero is the Boston Red Sox.
Boston was in the running for Soto, reportedly offering him a deal of around $700 million. But since coming up short, the Red Sox haven't committed long-term to any offseason upgrades. Could they be saving pennies to pursue Guerrero next year? Pairing him in the middle of the order with third baseman Rafael Devers would be a lethal one-two punch.
Guerrero, who will be 26 years old in March, reportedly has a "realistic" target of $500-600 million for his next contract. Spotrac estimates he'll earn $28.8 million next season before hitting the open market.
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