Whether you love him or hate him, you cannot deny Juan Soto’s potential at-bats. The New York Yankees have lost their Dominican superstar to their archrival, the New York Mets. And that certainly leaves a major gap in their lineup. MLB analyst thinks that the Yankees need to pull off a massive trade to fill that gap ever since the Mets snatched Soto from them. Guess what it might be?
For the Yankees, Juan Soto was one of the best hitters who had an impressive 2024 season where he slashed .288/.419/.569 and even scored 41 home runs with 109 RBIs. But Soto delivered his best on October 19, when he slashed three home runs against the Cleveland Guardians during the tenth inning, leading to a 5-2 win ultimately. The Yankees have suffered a major setback losing him, and the only way to recover from it is by having a $500 million superstar. So, who is it?
It’s the Toronto Blue Jays Candian first baseman, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. As per reports, Guerrero Jr. was seeking $500 million in his current value, which the Blue Jays were willing to offer but with some deferrals, which lowered his current value. And that’s it! Both sides have cut off negotiations, and Guerrero Jr. is expected to become a free agent after the 2025 season.
As per FanSided, Christopher Kline wrote, “So, the Yankees might as well sniff around now. An extra half-season at Guerrero could mean the difference between a World Series title or no World Series title. It’s hard to imagine the Blue Jays trading Guerrero in the division, especially to the Yankees, but if New York comes with a package that’s impossible to refuse… Toronto might need to bite the bullet.”
As per Kline, there are high chances of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leaving Toronto. The Blue Jays aren’t quick enough to make some good trades, as they have earlier lost Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, and even Corbin Burnes. So, given that the Blue Jays don’t seem to give enough competition to other teams in the 2025 season, Guerrero Jr. might make his way out, rubbishing any reunion rumors. As for the Yankees, he would be a great bet because Guerrero Jr. had a good 2024 season. He hit 30 home runs at an average of .323, .396 OBP, and .940 OPS.
It’s not finalized yet whether Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will come to the New York Yankees or not, as there’s still some time left for the free agency trade. However, the Blue Jays president seems confident enough to get Vladdy back. Think that’s possible?
Blue Jays’ Mark Shapiro looks to retain Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
While a lot of rumors are going on about the Yankees trying to get Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Blue Jays’ president, Mark Shapiro, has denied any such claims. Shapiro cleared the air, confirming that they would ensure that Vladdy stays with them. “I think we’re going to sign him. I think we’re going to extend him. We have such a clear alignment on the desired outcome,” Shapiro was quoted saying. This indicates that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. wants to play his whole career with the Toronto Blue Jays and maintain his legacy all throughout his career. What does Vladdy say?
Well, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. seemed confident in saying that he would like to just focus on the game and spend time with his teammates. Even with the deferred money, the 26-year-old will still get a handsome $500 million for an extension of his contract, which is by far the third highest after Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto. He even mentioned asking for a $600 million deal earlier; however, he lowered the salary demands and would like the Blue Jays to give him an extension of 14, 15, or maybe even 20 years. As of now, the main focus would remain on how well he performs and how he can lead the team to make it to the playoffs.
Do you think the Yankees will get Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or the Blue Jays will extend the contract? Let us know.
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