The Toronto Blue Jays face a pivotal moment in their franchise history: securing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. for the long term. Guerrero, already a two-time All-Star and one of the faces of Major League Baseball, is the cornerstone of the team’s future. Yet, the clock is ticking. With each passing season, his value increases, and failing to lock him into a long-term contract now could spell disaster for the team down the road.Guerrero is not just a player; he’s a generational talent. At 25, he’s already proven he can hit for power, average, and produce in clutch moments. His 2021 MVP-caliber season, where he hit 48 home runs and had a .311 batting average, showed what he’s capable of at his peak. Players like Guerrero don’t come around often, and letting him even approach free agency would be a colossal mistake.For the Blue Jays, signing Guerrero isn’t just about on-field production; it’s also about sending a message. It tells fans that the organization is serious about competing for championships. It also signals to potential free agents that Toronto is a destination for winning. Losing someone like Guerrero—or even risking his departure—would create an atmosphere of uncertainty.Of course, signing Guerrero to a long-term deal won’t be cheap. Contracts for comparable players, like Fernando Tatis Jr. or Ronald Acuña Jr., have surpassed the $300 million mark. But the investment is worth it. The Blue Jays have spent years building a competitive core, and Guerrero is the centerpiece. Allowing him to leave would unravel much of that progress.Toronto needs to act now. Every game Guerrero plays without a long-term deal is a gamble the franchise cannot afford. If the Blue Jays are serious about winning—and keeping their fans engaged—they must take care of their own and lock in their superstar.
