The MLB was not ready for the Toronto Blue Jays to lose their superstar slugger, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Both parties failed to finalize a contract extension before a key deadline this week. Guerrero is now poised to enter free agency after the 2025 season, and his choices are now narrowed to three early favorite destinations.
Recently, MLB insider Jon Heyman pointed out the last three resorts for the superstar slugger. According to him, the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and New York Yankees are the top contenders for his services.
“(Very) early favorites to land Vlad Jr. this winter: 1. Red Sox 2. Mets (assuming Pete opts out) 3. Yankees,” Heyman tweeted.
(Very) early favorites to land Vlad Jr. this winter: 1. Red Sox 2. Mets (assuming Pete opts out) 3. Yankees https://t.co/VLWKZoD4o5
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 18, 2025
At just 25 years old, Guerrero is among the elite players in the league. Last season, he batted an impressive .323, racking up 30 homers and 103 RBIs. With a track record that boasts four All-Star selections and accolades, including the Silver Slugger Award and a Gold Glove, it’s no surprise that the slugger will be one of the most hyped free agents.
However, the situation for each of the three probables is different. The Blue Jays are already coming off with disappointing postseason results. The uncertainty of Guerrero’s future has opened the door for other teams. Similarly, the Mets find themselves needing to replace star first baseman Pete Alonso. The fierce competition in the AL East could ignite a bidding war, and the situation would be even more intriguing.
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What’s Next For Vladimir Guerrero Jr. After Failed Contract With Blue Jays?
While the negotiations didn’t work, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will now test free agency. After failing to secure a long-term deal by his self-imposed deadline, Guerrero is now set to be a free agent next offseason. This situation now puts his future with the Blue Jays in jeopardy and casts uncertainty over the franchise. Although, they have already struggled with major contract negotiations in recent years.
Despite the team’s assertions of their commitment to retaining him, Guerrero stood his ground with the number he had in his mind. As spring training unfolds, he seems focused on performing at a high level rather than dwelling on the contract stalemate. His resume includes four consecutive All-Star appearances and a track record that includes two top-10 finishes in AL MVP voting.
No deal for Vlad Jr. Source: Vlad Jr. https://t.co/5boKyk2NMO
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 18, 2025
He is poised to attract immense interest from clubs across the league when he hits the market. For the Blue Jays, the potential loss of Guerrero could have far-reaching consequences. It exacerbated fans’ concerns following their failed pursuits of high-profile players like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto.
While the Blue Jays management remains optimistic about retaining Guerrero, the increasing pressure to secure a deal before he tests the waters of free agency may lead to a frenzied final push. The franchise must now navigate this crucial situation, balancing the urgency of retaining their star player with the need to maintain a competitive roster in a tough market.
Also Read: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Update: Ross Atkins Shares Promising News For Blue Jays Fans
