Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has signed a historic 14-year, $500 million contract that runs through 2039 and features a record-setting $325 million signing bonus. The deal, finalized this week, is heavily front-loaded and includes unique structuring to maximize long-term earnings while offering tax advantages.
Guerrero, a four-time All-Star, receives $28.5 million in 2025 under his current deal before the new contract begins in 2026. The signing bonus is distributed in 15 annual payments starting with a $20 million installment this year, followed by structured payments ranging from $13 million in 2026 to $33 million in 2039.
His annual salary under the new deal starts at $17 million and gradually decreases to $6 million in 2039. Combined with the signing bonus, Guerrero will earn $528.5 million over 15 seasons, topping out at $39 million in the final year. The bonus is protected from work stoppages and, as a Florida resident, Guerrero may avoid state income taxes on it.
Incentives include up to $150,000 for MVP honors, $50,000 each for accolades like All-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, and World Series MVP, and $25,000 for LCS MVP. Perks include a hotel suite on road trips, a no-trade clause, four season tickets, and access to a discounted luxury suite at Rogers Centre.
Source: Swifteradio.com