Vladimir Guerrero Jr. claims "Shohei Ohtani changed the system for Juan Soto," stating his market value increased with Mets' recent $765,000,000 deal
Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. claimed that his market value has changed, thanks to Juan Soto's historic contract this winter, who in turn, has Shohei Ohtani to thank.
The 25-year-old infielder is set to enter free agency after next season but is yet to sign an extension with the Blue Jays. Speaking on Abriendo El podcast, Guerrero Jr. shed some light on his impending free agency and market value as he continues to negotiate an extension with Toronto:
"My numbers changed thanks to Juan Soto. Shohei Ohtani changed the system for Soto, and Soto changed the system for me."
Shohei Ohtani's 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year changed the landscape of the MLB market in a huge way.
It was the biggest contract ever signed in US sport history, with most believing that it was due to the Japanese star's two-way abilities. Nevertheless, it has now been surpassed by Juan Soto, an outfielder and power-hitter at the peak of his career.
While the bidding war between the New York Yankees and the New York Mets drove Soto's price up, Guerrero believes that it was thanks to Shohei Ohtani's unprecedented deal last year.
If the Blue Jays star doesn't extend his contract this year, he's set to become of the biggest free agents next year. While he claims that his market value has changed as a result of Soto's contract this year, it remains to be seen if he gets his asking price in the MLB.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. opens up on his contract negotiations with the Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays have been public about their desire to extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract this winter since the end of the MLB season.
In an interview with Abriendo Sports, he revealed that while talks have taken place, they have not been fruitful:
“We’ve heard a little from them, but itt’s not even close to what we’re looking for.”
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has made it clear that he's hoping to sign an extension, provided that the offer meets his terms. However, the two sides haven't come to an agreement so far. As time drags on, a trade for their star player becomes a real possibility for the Blue Jays.