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In an interview with ESPN, four-time All-Star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. denied speculation that he was seeking a contract similar to the 15-year, $765 million deal Juan Soto signed with the New York Mets. Guerrero, who turns 26 on March 16, agreed to a one-year, $28.5 million contract in January and is set to become a free agent after the World Series. He halted negotiations on a long-term deal when he reported to spring training last month.
In ESPN’s report published Thursday, Guerrero stated that while he had requested the same contract length as Soto, the total amount was “significantly lower—more than $100 million less.” He clarified that his last offer “didn’t even reach $600 million” and that he eventually reduced his request to a 14-year deal.
“I understand how the business works. I lowered my salary demands, but I also shortened the contract length. … I’m aiming for 14 years. I’d love 14, 15, or even 20 years if they’re willing to offer it, but it has to be done the right way,” Guerrero told ESPN.
Despite his impending free agency, the Toronto Blue Jays remain interested in re-signing their star slugger.
“The door is open and always will be open,” Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said in February regarding potential future negotiations. “Now and throughout the free-agency process. But right now, the sole focus for him, for the organization, and for the team is to have a championship-winning season.”
Guerrero had an impressive 2023 season, hitting .323 with a .396 on-base percentage, a .544 slugging percentage, 30 home runs, and 103 RBIs in 159 games. Over his career, he has posted a .288 batting average, a .363 on-base percentage, a .500 slugging percentage, 160 home runs, and 507 RBIs across 819 regular-season games—all with Toronto.
In 2021, Guerrero finished second in AL MVP voting after leading the majors in total bases (363), tying for the league lead in home runs (48), and topping the AL in on-base percentage (.401) and slugging percentage (.601).
