Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is staying in Toronto for the long haul, with the Blue Jays and their franchise cornerstone reportedly agreeing to a record-breaking 14-year, $500 million USD contract extension. Pending a physical, the deal would be the most lucrative in Blue Jays history and secures the 26-year-old slugger’s future with Canada’s only MLB team through 2039.
Guerrero, who debuted in 2019 and has spent his entire MLB career in Toronto, had entered the final year of his previous deal. Without an extension, he was poised for free agency this fall. The agreement includes a full no-trade clause and a signing bonus, and notably does not feature deferred money. His $35.71M annual average value ranks eighth among MLB contracts.
The Blue Jays pursued major free-agent talent over the winter but came up short, facing criticism for failing to land players like Juan Soto. Securing Guerrero’s extension is seen as a major win for GM Ross Atkins and the front office. Guerrero’s performance—highlighted by a .323 average, 30 home runs, and 103 RBI last season—reaffirmed his star status after a dip in form in 2022–2023.
Originally signed at 16 by former GM Alex Anthopoulos, the Montreal-born Dominican international was once a top international prospect. His best season came in 2021, finishing second in AL MVP voting. With Bo Bichette’s free agency looming, Guerrero’s deal provides long-term stability and optimism for the Blue Jays’ future.
Source: Swifteradio.com
