The Toronto Blue Jays and their young superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have avoided arbitration and agreed to a one-year, $14.5 million deal on Friday, per Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi.
Guerrero Jr., 23, becomes the 10th Blue Jay to avoid arbitration.
Earlier Friday, The Toronto Blue Jays avoided arbitration with outfielder Daulton Varsho, catcher Danny Jansen, infielder Santiago Espinal, infielder/outfielder Cavan Biggio, left-handed reliever Tim Mayza, right-handed closer Jordan Romano and right-handed relievers Adam Cimber, Trevor Richards and Trent Thornton.
While some fans were probably hoping for a record-setting extension instead, the Blue Jays still have time with their young slugger.
Guerrero Jr. is not scheduled to become a free agent until after the 2025 season at the age of 26. Toronto will have until then to lock him down long term, or else he will be free to test the free agency market.
The two-time all-star had a .274 average with 32 homers and 97 RBIs for Toronto last season. He also significantly improved on defence, winning the first Gold Glove of his career for his play at first base.
The young phenom was also voted AL MVP runner-up during the 2021 season, solidifying himself as one of the top players in the league.
