BREAKING: Vladdy Jr. is set to become a free agent next offseason after the Blue Jays failed to complete a contract extension before his February 26 deadline…

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the baseball world, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season. The Toronto Blue Jays have failed to reach a contract extension with their star first baseman and designated hitter before the February 26 deadline, leaving the 24-year-old slugger on track to explore the open market next offseason.

 

Guerrero Jr., widely regarded as one of the top players in Major League Baseball, has been the face of the Blue Jays’ franchise since making his MLB debut in 2019. The Dominican-born phenom has consistently put up impressive numbers, including a breakout 2021 season where he finished as the runner-up for the American League MVP. He is known for his elite power, exceptional bat speed, and ability to drive in runs, making him one of the most feared hitters in the game.

 

As his rookie contract draws to a close, Guerrero’s future with the Blue Jays has become one of the most talked-about storylines in the sport. Many believed that the team would move quickly to lock up their star player to a long-term deal, but as the deadline approached, it became clear that the two sides could not come to an agreement.

 

Sources close to the situation have revealed that while there were discussions throughout the offseason, the Blue Jays and Guerrero’s camp could not bridge the gap on key terms, including the length and value of the contract. Guerrero reportedly wanted a deal that would reflect his standing as one of the game’s brightest stars, while the Blue Jays were hesitant to meet those demands, particularly given the financial implications of such a long-term commitment.

 

With Guerrero now set to hit free agency, the Blue Jays face the difficult task of retaining their cornerstone player. Guerrero’s market value is expected to be astronomical, with several high-profile teams already positioning themselves to make a run at him next offseason. The Blue Jays, however, will likely attempt to re-engage Guerrero’s camp during the 2025 season in hopes of securing a deal before he officially hits the open market.

 

The timing of the deadline failure is particularly notable. February 26 was seen as the critical date for the Blue Jays to finalize an extension, as it marks a pivotal point in Guerrero’s career trajectory. Without an agreement in place by this date, Guerrero would be free to test his options, and given his age and skill set, he would command one of the most lucrative contracts in MLB history.

 

Several teams are expected to be in the mix for Guerrero’s services when he becomes a free agent. Clubs with deep pockets, including the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Chicago Cubs, have long been rumored to have interest in the 24-year-old slugger. The potential bidding war could lead to a massive contract, one that could reset the market for position players in Major League Baseball.

 

The fallout from this development will undoubtedly reverberate throughout the Blue Jays organization. Guerrero has been a central figure in their lineup for years, and losing him would leave a massive hole in the middle of their order. Toronto’s front office will likely focus on surrounding their young core with the right pieces to remain competitive in 2025, all while hoping they can convince Guerrero to stay with the franchise long-term.

 

For now, Guerrero’s focus will likely shift to preparing for the 2025 season, where he will aim to continue his rise as one of the game’s most dominant players. Whether the Blue Jays can find a way to keep him beyond 2025 or if they’ll have to face the reality of losing him to free agency remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Guerrero’s impending free agency will be one of the most highly anticipated storylines in the sport over the next year.