Ex-Mets GM suggests Blue Jays pursue Juan Soto in free agency; doubts $300M deal for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
MLB Insiders Ben Ennis and Kevin Barker, along with Jim Duquette, discussed how Toronto Blue Jays' should manage their business in the market once the season ends. The trio discussed in-form Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s future at the club, a potential move for Juan Soto and more.
Guerrero Jr. has been very much a man in form this season, as he continues to be the main man for the Blue Jays. The 25-year-old is batting at a .321 average this season, which is 4th in the major leagues, along with 23 home runs and 76 RBIs.
With Vlad also nearing free agency after the end of next season, a potential contract extension by the Blue Jays has been rumoured to be in the region of $300 million.
In the latest episode of Blair and Barker, former New York Mets general manager Duquette said it may not be necessary for the Toronto side to break the bank to keep their star (32:57).
"A big part of this is trying to figure out, if not Toronto, where [does Vladimir Guerrero Jr. go]? Is there another team out there that will go to 300 for a first baseman? I don't know if another team is willing to go to that number.
"Would other teams go mid 200s? Probably yes, but we will never know until he goes out to free agency, and that's the tricky part for both parties."
Also, the former Mets GM talked about Toronto potentially going for New York Yankees star Juan Soto once he enters free agency (34:47).
"I think Toronto should be in on Juan Soto. Any team that missed out on Ohtani certainly have the money for Soto, who's going to cost less. If they manage to keep Vladdy, I think that could factor in to getting Soto."
Finally, Duquette addressed the potential trade of injured shortstop Bo Bichette (38:05).
"If I was an opposing GM, I would like to see him play again this season first. I'd also try to low-ball the Blue Jays due to the injury plagued season, and that's a problem for Toronto. You're never going to get the value you need, that prevents a trade like that happening most of the time."
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continues hot form as Blue Jays beat Angels
The Toronto Blue Jays emerged victorious in Game 1 of their away series against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday, beating their hosts 4-2 at Angel Stadium. The win is a much needed bounce back for the Toronto side who came into their latest clash on the back of two successive home losses to the Oakland Athletics.
Vladdy continued his good form at the plate as he recorded 2 hits in the game. The 25-year-old also scored the all-important opening run of the game in the top of the third inning to give his side the lead.
The Blue Jays take on the Angels in Game 2 of the three-game series on Tuesday. Fans will hope their star man can once again inspire the side to another victory, clinching a series win for the visitors.