The Toronto Blue Jays had a decision to make as the 2025 MLB season approached.
Would they give Vladimir Guerrero Jr. half a billion dollars?
That's the number that Vladdy was reportedly interested in. It would be one of the biggest contracts in baseball history. How badly did the Blue Jays want to keep the face of their franchise?
In the end, they pulled the trigger. And less than a year later, it already feels like it is paying off.
Vladito, little Vladdy, has put together a postseason for the ages in getting the Blue Jays back to the World Series for the first time since 1993. Talk about a quick return on investment.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contract details
The Blue Jays didn't reach a contract agreement with Vladdy until the season had already started. The contract came through on April 9:
- Years: 14
- Salary: $500 million
- Per year: $35.71 million
MORE: This 27-year old infielder will get a World Series ring no matter whether Dodgers or Blue Jays win
Why did Blue Jays pay Vladimir Guerrero Jr. $500 million?
The Blue Jays couldn't afford to lose the face of their franchise.
“This is a monumental moment in franchise history. Vlad has been part of our Blue Jays family since he was 16 years old and has captured the heart of our city and country,” Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said when the contract was signed. “There are very few in the game today that can say they have played for more than two decades with the same team, and we are immensely grateful Blue Jays fans will get to see Vlad finish his career where it all began. The name Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will forever be synonymous with the Toronto Blue Jays.”
Vladdy had been in the Blue Jays' organization since he was 16. He's a Canadian citizen, even.
And now Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a Blue Jay for life.
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