Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays have avoided arbitration.
The parties agreed to a one-year, $28.5 million contract just before the arbitration deadline.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. makes headlines amid MLB deadline
The deal, the third-highest ever for an arbitration-eligible player, places Guerrero in elite company behind Juan Soto ($31 million in 2024) and Shohei Ohtani ($30 million in 2023).
This agreement ensures stability for Guerrero’s 2025 salary while leaving open questions about a potential long-term extension.
The first baseman, who won an arbitration case last year to secure a $19.9 million salary, remains a cornerstone of the Blue Jays’ lineup.
Toronto’s front office has expressed interest in keeping Guerrero in their plans beyond 2025, though no extension appears imminent.
As spring training approaches, Guerrero’s future will be a hot topic for fans and media alike.
Comparisons have been drawn to Aaron Judge’s journey with the Yankees, where lengthy negotiations ultimately led to a high-profile free agency return.
Guerrero wasn’t the only big name to strike a deal before arbitration.
Houston Astros left-hander Framber Valdez agreed to an $18 million contract, while reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal secured $10.15 million with the Detroit Tigers, more than tripling his previous salary.
Other notable agreements included Kyle Tucker with the Chicago Cubs ($15 million), Randy Arozarena with the Seattle Mariners ($11.3 million), and Dylan Cease with the San Diego Padres ($13.75 million).
Despite 148 players reaching deals, several still exchanged figures, including Nathaniel Lowe, who requested $11.1 million from the Nationals, and Michael King, who sought $8.8 million from the Padres.
Arbitration hearings for unresolved cases will take place from Jan. 27 to Feb. 14 in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The arbitration process continues to be a critical part of MLB’s offseason, balancing team budgets with player earnings.
For the Blue Jays, locking in Guerrero’s deal ensures they’ll have their star first baseman ready to take the field in Dunedin, Florida, with one less distraction.
The focus now shifts to whether Toronto can secure a long-term deal with one of baseball’s brightest young talents.
Read the full article here
