Blue Jays Expected to Offer Vladimir Guerrero Jr. a Record $600 Million Contract

The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly close to finalizing an extension with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

According to Stephen Nesbitt of The Athletic, the deal is expected to be favorable to the Silver Slugger (subscription required).

“The Blue Jays will not only extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – a 15-year, $600 million deal with deferrals – but will also rely on his bat to secure a Wild Card spot and their first ALDS appearance since 2016,” Nesbitt wrote.

If deferrals are included, the exact amount of money paid later remains uncertain. However, it’s unlikely to exceed $100 million, as Guerrero insists on receiving at least $500 million upfront.

The latter part of Nesbitt’s prediction adds another layer of intrigue. While the New York Yankees have not lived up to expectations, the American League East remains highly competitive. Considering the strength of teams from other divisions, the Blue Jays’ path to the playoffs will still be challenging.

Guerrero went 0-for-2 with two walks in Thursday’s 12-2 loss to the Orioles. To be fair, there wasn’t much going well for the Blue Jays on opening day.

If the Blue Jays meet Nesbitt’s predicted offer, it would show that Guerrero’s decision to turn down an earlier offer was the right one. Whether the Blue Jays are willing to make such an investment remains to be seen.

As of now, however, Guerrero would be well worth every dollar of the deal.