Ex-MLB star calls out Toronto Blue Jays for lack of Guerrero long-term deal
The Toronto Blue Jays front office has received its fair share of barbs over the years — and former players are now getting their thoughts in on Mark Shapiro and Ross Atkins.
On Wednesday, former MLB catcher and two-time All-Star AJ Pierzynski joined Foul Territory to share his thoughts on topics around the league.
When asked about a player that a team should be working hard to secure a long-term deal, Pierzynski immediately brought up the Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The Blue Jays should have this Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extension done by now, says @AJPierzynski12. pic.twitter.com/uo2mcwEJrT
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 12, 2025
“The Blue Jays just need to sign him for goodwill with their fans,” Pierzynski said. “They should’ve already had this done. The Blue Jays need something to get the fans excited that hey, the Blue Jays are really going after it. They haven’t won anything, they’re in a tough division. They need to show their fans that they’re trying and hey, we’re going to build around Vladdy Jr.”
It should be noted that the Blue Jays have the fifth-biggest payroll at this point in time, as per Spotrac. Guerrero Jr. recently signed a one-year deal with the Blue Jays worth $28.5 million for the 2025 season, keeping the option open to hit free agency next offseason.
And though he’s indicated a desire to stay long-term in Toronto, he also stated in a December interview with Dominican Republic-based outlet Abriendo Sports that he’s not willing to negotiate a contract extension after the first full day of spring training. With Guerrero Jr. expected to report to the team’s complex in Dunedin over the next week, there’s worry among Toronto fans that he might end up taking his talents elsewhere in the future.
One report from Bob Nightengale suggested the team and Guerrero Jr. were “$100 million apart” when they first reached the negotiating table this offseason.
The Blue Jays are just nine days away from their first spring training contest when they take on the New York Yankees on February 22.