The Toronto Blue Jays have spent $15 million in free agency this offseason. It also happens to be the final year before Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette become free agents. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported that “Bichette is good as gone, with no real interest in returning, friends say.”
For Guerrero, Nightengale noted that he would “love to be with the [Boston] Red Sox” if the Blue Jays fail to sign him for and he becomes a free agent after the 2025 season. Nightengale also said that Guerrero wants at least a $450 million contract and he and Toronto are “at least $100 million apart.”
“If Guerrero doesn’t receive an extension by spring training, he’ll test free agency. If Guerrero doesn’t return to the Blue Jays, he would love to be with the Red Sox, friends say, which may be why the Red Sox are hesitant in their pursuit of Bregman.”
Guerrero, who will turn 26 in March, batted .323/.396/.940 with 30 home runs and 103 RBI in 697 plate appearances last season.
Vladimir Guerrero ‘Likely to Join’ Red Sox in Free Agency
If the Red Sox sign Alex Bregman this offseason, then that means they will be out of contention for Guerrero. Having both players would give Boston four players who play first and/ or third base with only one designated hitter spot. However, after gaining momentum on Bregman, things have cooled off as the Red Sox might take themselves out of the running.
Alternative Option: Nolan Arenado
St. Louis Cardinals insider John Denton, reported on Monday that there’s now more traction behind a trade for Nolan Arenado than the Red Sox signing Bregman.
“Boston could be close to pulling out the sweepstakes for free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman, who could potentially comman a deal worth $200 million, per the source.”
Arenado could soon be headed to Fenway Park. He has a full-no trade clause in his contract and flexed it in December to block a potential deal to the Houston Astros. Arenado informed the Cardinals of his willingness to agree to a potential trade to the Red Sox.
Even if the Red Sox do acquire one of Arenado or Guerrero, either one of them could make for a good pairing with Devers. Guererro could take over first base while Dever plays third or Arenado plays third with Devers shifting to first base. It would be tough for the Blue Jays to watch Guerrero join a division rival. There’s still to get a deal done, but the Blue Jays are running out of time.
Main Photo: © Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
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