As the Toronto Blue Jays head into the offseason, one of the biggest questions on the minds of fans and analysts alike is whether or not the team will be able to re-sign their star third baseman, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The 22-year-old phenom had a breakout season in 2021, hitting .311 with 48 home runs and 111 RBIs, earning him a second-place finish in the American League MVP voting.
Guerrero Jr. is currently under team control through the 2025 season, but there has been speculation that the Blue Jays may look to lock him up long-term with a contract extension. However, assessing the feasibility of re-signing Guerrero Jr. is not as simple as just looking at his performance on the field.
One of the biggest factors that will play into the Blue Jays’ ability to re-sign Guerrero Jr. is his agent, Scott Boras. Boras is known for negotiating some of the largest contracts in baseball history, and he will undoubtedly be looking to secure a massive payday for his client. This could make it difficult for the Blue Jays to keep Guerrero Jr. in Toronto, especially if other teams are willing to offer more money.
Another factor to consider is the Blue Jays’ current financial situation. While the team has shown a willingness to spend money in recent years, they may be hesitant to commit to a long-term, high-dollar contract for Guerrero Jr. given their other financial commitments and the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations.
On the other hand, re-signing Guerrero Jr. would be a huge boost for the Blue Jays both on and off the field. Not only is he one of the most exciting young players in baseball, but he is also a fan favorite and a key part of the team’s marketing efforts. Keeping him in Toronto could help to solidify the team’s status as a contender in the American League East for years to come.
Ultimately, assessing the feasibility of re-signing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will come down to a combination of factors, including his performance on the field, his agent’s negotiating tactics, the team’s financial situation, and their long-term goals. While it may not be an easy decision for the Blue Jays, there is no doubt that keeping Guerrero Jr. in Toronto would be a major win for the team and its fans.