MLB Rumors: Is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Playing His Final Season in Blue Jays? A Blockbuster Trade Could Be on the Horizon
With each passing day, it seems more likely that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is entering his final season with the Toronto Blue Jays. But will he walk in free agency, or will the team trade him before that happens? Recent reports suggest a trade may be imminent.
Blue Jays’ Offseason Gamble: Did Toronto Wait Too Long?
Despite having little chance of landing superstar outfielder Juan Soto this offseason, Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins reportedly refused to engage with other free agents until Soto had made his decision. This delay put Toronto behind the curve, forcing the team to remain inactive for an extended period.
Just when fans were beginning to lose faith, the Blue Jays made two major signings—outfielder Anthony Santander and veteran pitcher Max Scherzer. These additions have the potential to make a significant impact in 2025. However, recent developments involving Scherzer could signal an upcoming trade involving Guerrero Jr.
Could Max Scherzer’s Injury Push the Blue Jays to Trade Guerrero Jr.?
At 40 years old, Scherzer knew a multi-year contract would be difficult to secure. He ultimately agreed to a one-year, $15.5 million deal with the Blue Jays. While age was a concern, his recent injury history was the main reason Toronto was hesitant to offer a longer-term contract.
Scherzer managed only nine starts last season with the Texas Rangers, and now, it appears he could begin his Blue Jays tenure on the injured list. The veteran pitcher has been dealing with a lingering thumb injury and tested it in an intrasquad game on Monday. According to Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star, Scherzer is still experiencing discomfort, with no signs of improvement.
If Scherzer is sidelined for an extended period—or if he attempts to pitch through the injury and struggles—the Blue Jays could quickly find themselves in a hole they can’t climb out of. Competing in a highly competitive AL East division leaves little room for error. Should Toronto fall too far behind in the standings, all eyes will shift to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The Implications of a Potential Guerrero Jr. Trade.
Guerrero Jr. is set to hit free agency at the end of the 2025 season, and previous failed contract negotiations suggest he is unlikely to sign an extension with the Blue Jays. Rather than risk losing him for nothing, Toronto may opt to trade him before the deadline.
If Guerrero Jr. were to hit the trade market, he would immediately become the most sought-after player available, drawing interest from nearly every team in MLB. The return for Toronto could be substantial, helping them reshape the roster for the future.
Will the Blue Jays Make a Move?
Much of the Blue Jays' 2025 season hinges on Scherzer’s health. If he remains on the field and performs well, Toronto could remain a contender, keeping Guerrero Jr. in their lineup for the entire season. But if Scherzer’s injury derails the team's playoff hopes, a Guerrero Jr. trade could become inevitable.
One thing is certain: the Blue Jays' front office faces a difficult decision in the months ahead. Fans should brace for the possibility that one of the franchise’s biggest stars may be playing his final season in Toronto.
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