The Toronto Blue Jays’ future grew murky after failing to reach a contract extension with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The four-time All-Star set a deadline of the first full day of Spring Training to complete a deal, but negotiations weren’t close. Now facing free agency after the 2025 season, Guerrero could be moved before the trade deadline. Here are six potential destinations for the premier slugger.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies’ lone offensive upgrade this offseason was outfielder Max Kepler, who hit just eight home runs with the Minnesota Twins in 2024. Guerrero would provide the right-handed power bat Philadelphia needs. Though Bryce Harper occupies first base, the Phillies could shift Guerrero to third by including All-Star Alec Bohm in the deal. Prospects Justin Crawford, Mick Abel, and Eduardo Tait could sweeten the package, though Philadelphia likely wouldn’t part with Andrew Painter or Aidan Miller for a rental.
Related: Five burning questions facing Philadelphia Phillies heading into 2025 season
Boston Red Sox
The Blue Jays might deal within the division for the right price. The Boston Red Sox, after missing on Juan Soto but landing Alex Bregman, could create a fearsome lineup with Guerrero alongside Bregman, Rafael Devers, and Jarren Duran. While top prospects Kristian Campbell, Roman Anthony, and Marcelo Mayer are likely off-limits, the Red Sox could build a package around first baseman Triston Casas plus prospects Franklin Arias, Yoelin Cespedes, and Miguel Bleis.
Related: MLB insiders reveal staggering deferrals in Alex Bregman contract with Boston Red Sox
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners boasts an elite pitching staff but needs offensive firepower beyond Julio Rodriguez, Randy Arozarena, and Cal Raleigh. Bringing back Jorge Polanco helps, but Guerrero’s bat could push the Mariners into playoff contention. Without tapping their young pitchers, Seattle could deal from their deep prospect pool: Cole Young, Colt Emerson, Harry Ford, Lazaro Montes, and Felnin Celesten.
San Francisco Giants
After signing Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million deal, the San Francisco Giants still needs offensive help. Guerrero would strengthen a lineup featuring Adames, Matt Chapman, Heliot Ramos, and returning Jung Hoo Lee. While top prospect Bryce Eldridge stays put, the Giants could offer James Tibbs III, Carson Whisenhunt, and Rayner Arias.
New York Mets
You could already imagine New York Mets owner Steve Cohen envisioning a lineup featuring Guerrero alongside Juan Soto. A combination of Soto, Guerrero, Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, Mark Vientos, Brandon Nimmo, and Francisco Alvarez would rival the Los Angeles Dodgers’ potent offense. With rotation concerns and no clear ace, New York’s path to World Series contention may depend on offensive firepower. The Mets possess attractive trade pieces in Ronny Mauricio, Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuna, Brandon Sproat, and Jett Williams.
Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers missed out on signing Alex Bregman despite offering a six-year, $171.5 million deal to the two-time All-Star. Looking to build on their surprising 2024 playoff run, Detroit could add Guerrero’s power bat to complement Riley Greene, Parker Meadows, Colt Keith, and Kerry Carpenter. While top prospects Jackson Jobe and Max Clark will most likely be untouchable, a package centered around Kevin McGonigle, Bryce Rainer, and Jace Jung could entice Toronto. Former No. 1 overall pick Spencer Torkelson, who could benefit from a change of scenery, might also be included.
