As the MLB 2025 trade deadline nears, Toronto Blue Jays must make a crucial decision regarding Vladimir Guerrero Jr. This requires careful consideration of both their competitive goals and long-term strategies.
The team has two choices: either maintain the current status quo by aiming to be competitive in the coming season and then negotiate an extension of the contract with the first-baseman superstar during the following off-season or make a move, initiating possibly a partial rebuild but still trying to sign Guerrero Jr.
It is likely that the team’s level of competition leading up to trade deadline will be the key factor. The Blue Jays would not be likely to trade Guerrero Jr. if they are in the race for an American League East championship or Wild Card slot. This shows a strong commitment to their current goals.
Kerry Miller from Bleacher Report says that Blue Jays would rather keep Guerrero Jr. than sell him during the current season, highlighting the value of recent roster changes and the desire to compete.
The main question is now whether Vladimir Guerrero Jr., will still be playing for the Blue Jays by August. Miller wrote that if the Blue Jays are far away from contending, the club could trade a player who would make a good rental, like Manny Machado in 2018. A trade is not likely to happen before the start of the season.
“The offseason acquisitions of players like Andrés Giménez, veteran infielder Anthony Santander, relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman, and future hall of famer Max Scherzer signal an intent. These additions ensure that the Blue Jays’ goal is to compete at least up until the All Star break, before they consider any changes.
It would not be expected that the Blue Jays, who are working hard to build a team capable of competing in 2025 and beyond, end up at the bottom the AL East. The decision to retain Guerrero Jr. is logical, and will boost their chances for a long playoff run.
Toronto could make a smart move if they struggle to meet the deadline. Trading their star player would bring in a large amount of future assets and promising prospects to help replenish the farm system.
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