METS Offer Vladimir Guerrero Jr. a Historic 14-Year, $490M Deal—Could Reach $560M With Higher AAV…
In a groundbreaking move, the New York Mets have reportedly extended a monumental 14-year, $490 million contract offer to Toronto Blue Jays’ star first baseman, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. This offer, which could escalate to $560 million with a higher average annual value (AAV), aims to secure one of baseball’s premier talents for the long term.
Guerrero Jr., a four-time All-Star, has been a cornerstone for the Blue Jays since his debut. Despite his expressed desire to remain in Toronto, recent contract negotiations have stalled. The Blue Jays’ proposal of $350 million fell short of Guerrero’s expectations, as he seeks a deal comparable to the historic contracts of Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto. In the 2024 season, Guerrero showcased his exceptional skills with a .323 batting average, 30 home runs, and 103 RBIs, solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite hitters.
The Mets’ aggressive pursuit of Guerrero underscores their commitment to building a championship-caliber team. This potential acquisition would not only enhance their offensive lineup but also serve as a strategic move to maintain competitiveness in the fiercely contested National League East. Notably, the Mets recently secured Juan Soto with a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract, and pairing him with Guerrero could establish a formidable duo reminiscent of historic power pairings in baseball history.
Financially, this offer represents a significant investment. A $35 million AAV would total $490 million over 14 years, while a $40 million AAV would elevate the contract to $560 million. These figures would set new benchmarks, surpassing Miguel Cabrera’s $31 million AAV for first basemen. The Mets’ willingness to commit such resources indicates their determination to assemble a roster capable of sustained success.
However, the Mets are not alone in their pursuit. The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees have also expressed interest in Guerrero. The Red Sox, in particular, have demonstrated financial flexibility, recently acquiring ace pitcher Garrett Crochet and signing third baseman Alex Bregman to a historic deal. Speculation suggests that Guerrero may have a preference for playing in Boston, adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding free agency saga.
For the Blue Jays, losing Guerrero would be a significant blow. As they prepare for the 2025 season, the unresolved contract situation casts a shadow over the team’s future. While Guerrero has expressed a desire to stay in Toronto, the financial gap between the player’s expectations and the team’s offer remains a critical hurdle.
As the 2025 season approaches, the baseball world will be closely monitoring Guerrero’s decision. The potential shift in power dynamics, especially within the National League East, hinges on where this generational talent ultimately signs. Whether he joins the Mets, aligns with the Red Sox, or remains with the Blue Jays, Guerrero’s contract will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of Major League Baseball for years to come.
