Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Plans to Become Free Agent After Season, Fails to Reach Long-Term Deal with Blue Jays
Guerrero Sets Sights on Free Agency After Deadline Passes
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has decided to become a free agent after the season, following the expiration of his deadline to reach a long-term agreement with the Toronto Blue Jays. The four-time All-Star first baseman made the announcement on Tuesday, stating that he had reached a dead end in negotiations with the team.
“I want to be here. I want to be a Blue Jay for the rest of my career,” Guerrero said through translator Hector Lebron. “But it’s free agency. It’s business. I’m going to have to listen to 29 more teams and they’re going to have to compete for that.”
Guerrero’s Expectations Not Met
Guerrero’s last communication with the team came around 10:30 p.m. on Monday, and the two sides never came close to reaching an agreement. The 25-year-old slugger has a $28.5 million, one-year contract and is expected to be one of the top free agents on the market next year.
“I have my number all along,” Guerrero said. “I changed it a little bit. I tried, but it still didn’t happen.”
Blue Jays President’s Statement
“We’re disappointed we couldn’t get a deal done,” Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said. “When you go into a negotiation, each side has its reasons for a number. In this case, we couldn’t align on a common number. There’s no such thing as close or not close. There’s done or not done.”
Team’s Commitment to Guerrero
Despite the failed negotiations, the Blue Jays have reaffirmed their commitment to Guerrero, stating that they will not entertain trade offers for him. “Our only focus now is winning with Vladdy,” Shapiro said.
Guerrero’s Future Plans
Guerrero, who turns 26 next month, plans to focus on the upcoming season and not worry about his free agency status. “I’ll do anything, everything I have, to stay here with the Blue Jays,” he said. “I love it here. I want to be here. I’m not thinking about free agency. I won’t be thinking about free agency at all during the season.”
Conclusion
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has chosen to become a free agent after the season, following the expiration of his deadline to reach a long-term agreement with the Toronto Blue Jays. While the failed negotiations may be a setback for the team, they have reaffirmed their commitment to Guerrero and have made it clear that they will not entertain trade offers for him. As Guerrero focuses on the upcoming season, he will have to navigate the spotlight and the speculation surrounding his future.
FAQs
* What is the current status of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s contract with the Blue Jays?
– He has a $28.5 million, one-year contract that is set to expire after the season.
* What is the expected market value of Guerrero’s services?
– He is expected to be one of the top free agents on the market next year, with a potential market value of over $300 million.
* Will the Blue Jays entertain trade offers for Guerrero?
– No, the team has reaffirmed their commitment to Guerrero and will not entertain trade offers for him.
* What is Guerrero’s focus for the upcoming season?
– He plans to focus on the season and not worry about his free agency status, stating that he will “do anything, everything I have, to stay here with the Blue Jays”.
