The New York Yankees may be shopping around for first basemen and bats. Vladimir Guerrero Jr would fit incredibly well into the pinstripe equation. The Blue Jays slugger may be on the trade block, and he did revert his stance on playing in New York. Guerrero Jr was recently asked about the deadline and the possibilities of a trade; he provided a transparent response.
Reasons Why Vladimir Guerrero Jr Would Fit The Yankees
The entire Blue Jays fan base and the organization should know that this year’s team will be a seller. The question is, how soon? Toronto has not offered extensions on any of its top expiring names. The face of the franchise, Guerrero Jr, remains a free agent post 2024.
Fortunately for the Yankees, they seek a first baseman, and Guerrero Jr would fit that description. Rizzo is injured, and the offense on the right side of the infield needs a boost. Over the past few games, the Yankees have been on a downward slide. It’s not the time to panic, but it’s time to open the wallet towards improvement. Why would Guerrero fit this equation?
Guerrero Jr Re-traces His Stance On Playing For The Yankees
The Blue Jays first baseman has made stern comments in the past regarding the Yankees, including stating that he would never play for them. Recently, Guerrero Jr. was asked about the status of his team and the trade deadline.
Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. walks back comments about never playing for the Yankees https://t.co/8HtBmJSD2K
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) June 25, 2024
He advised that he would not take back what he said but mentioned that this was a business. He also noted that he confided in his family about such a possibility. He’s open to helping any team, including the Yankees.
Guerrero Jr Would Fit The Yankees lineup.
The Blue Jays offense has been absent this year. Unfortunately, Blue Jays fans include Guerrero Jr as a faulty part of that offense. Blue Jays faithful will point fingers at key semi-performing players and defend useless pieces on their roster. This alone is a reason for the slugger to jump ship.
Guerrero Jr’s profile at the plate is intriguing and is beneficial to any lineup. He is almost halfway to his final home run number in 2023; this was an all-star year for Guerrero Jr. The slugger sits at 11 home runs, 42 RBIs, and a .289 batting average so far on the year.
Another observation aside from the stats is how Guerrero Jr. is tearing up the baseball. He is making solid, strong contact and staying on top of the ball. He’s bringing the barrel through with good bat speed and is strong on both the pull side and up the middle.
Guerrero Jr On Defense
The Dominican slugger can play both corner positions. His primary spot is first base; however, he has taken reps and can play third base. When healthy, his primary role would be to replace or platoon with Anthony Rizzo.
He Can Sign A Long Term Deal
Signed through 2024, Guerrero Jr would attract great return to Toronto upon a trade. The Blue Jays would be looking for established pieces along with projectable high-ranking prospects. When it’s all said and done, if he doesn’t return to Toronto, the Bronx will win him and pay him.
The Yankees could offer a short-term contract to a free agent or as an extension. New York’s priority is Juan Soto; however, Guerrero Jr. could use two to three years to up his stock while making a pretty penny.
Main Photo Credits: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
