Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays couldn’t finalize a contract extension before Guerrero’s self-imposed deadline ahead of spring training.
This situation now presents an intriguing opportunity for the New York Mets, as the talented player is expected to hit the free agent market after this season.
Negotiations with Toronto
At a recent press conference, Guerrero shared that talks with the Blue Jays fell short due to differing expectations on the terms of a new contract.
He mentioned that with negotiations unresolved, he is ready to explore his options with all 29 other teams in baseball, highlighting the competitive landscape of free agency.
Mets’ Potential Interest
The Mets emerge as a significant player in this scenario.
Before securing a two-year deal with Pete Alonso—a contract that includes an opt-out option post-2025—the Mets reportedly engaged in preliminary discussions with the Blue Jays about trading for Guerrero.
Mets owner Steve Cohen expressed enthusiasm about Guerrero’s exceptional skills, acknowledging the star’s impact on the field.
However, he also pointed out the importance of maintaining financial balance and flexibility in the roster when considering long-term contracts.
This indicates a thoughtful approach as the team lays its plans for the future.
Future Acquisitions
If the Mets decide to chase Guerrero, they’ll enter a bidding war with not just Toronto but also a host of other interested clubs in roughly eight months.
As Guerrero approaches his age-27 season in 2026, he fits perfectly among the elite players the Mets have targeted in recent free agency attempts, including stars like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Juan Soto.
The Guerrero Jr. contract countdown will undoubtedly be one of the biggest storylines of the upcoming offseason, with teams closely monitoring Toronto’s willingness to negotiate an extension.
If the Blue Jays hesitate, the Mets could leverage their deep pockets and aggressive approach to make a compelling offer.
Given their recent history of pursuing top-tier talent, a serious push for Guerrero Jr. would align with their long-term vision of building a championship-caliber roster.
Despite already being financially committed with Soto’s substantial contract—averaging over $50 million per year—the Mets’ financial framework remains solid enough to accommodate another major acquisition.
Currently, the team’s payroll for luxury tax purposes hovers around $327 million, but their commitments for 2026 will stand at approximately $260.8 million.
This commitment decreases to about $193.8 million in 2027 and drops dramatically to $126 million by 2028.
As a standout performer and a 2024 All-Star, Guerrero had a remarkable season last year, smashing 30 home runs and driving in 103 runs.
The prospect of him entering free agency sparks excitement for Mets fans and baseball lovers alike, as the possibility of his addition could significantly impact the team’s future.
