Steve Cohen’s Bold Statement on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Contract Situation
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen has made headlines with his recent comments regarding Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s contract situation with the Toronto Blue Jays. Guerrero, one of baseball’s brightest stars, was unable to reach a long-term extension with the Blue Jays before his self-imposed deadline, leaving his future with the team uncertain. With free agency looming after the 2025 season, speculation has already begun about which teams might pursue the talented slugger, and Cohen’s Mets are at the center of the conversation.
When asked about Guerrero’s potential availability and whether the Mets would be interested, Cohen didn’t shy away from addressing the situation. However, while he acknowledged Guerrero’s talent, he also emphasized a strategic approach to roster management.
“He’s a great ballplayer. Once again, I’ll worry about that next year. Obviously, with payroll considerations, you really can’t have too many long-term contracts because then you lose your roster flexibility, so you have to be really careful. But I’ll let my baseball people make that decision,” Cohen said.
This statement highlights Cohen’s careful planning when it comes to high-profile acquisitions. Since purchasing the Mets, he has demonstrated a willingness to spend big to build a competitive team, as seen with major moves like the acquisitions of Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor. However, Cohen is also mindful of long-term payroll commitments and the importance of financial flexibility.
Guerrero, a 25-year-old three-time All-Star and former MVP finalist, remains one of the league’s premier hitters. Since debuting in 2019, he has been a cornerstone of the Blue Jays’ lineup, known for his elite power, discipline at the plate, and defensive improvements at first base. However, with Toronto and Guerrero failing to agree on a contract extension, the possibility of him entering free agency after 2025 has become a major storyline.
For the Mets, the idea of adding Guerrero is undoubtedly intriguing. First base is currently held by Pete Alonso, another elite slugger who will be a free agent after 2024. If Alonso were to leave, Guerrero could become a prime target for the Mets, especially given Cohen’s desire to keep the team competitive.
Still, Cohen’s comments suggest that while the Mets are always looking to improve, they will approach any potential Guerrero pursuit with caution. The team already has significant financial commitments, and making another long-term, high-value deal would require careful consideration.
Meanwhile, Guerrero has expressed his desire to stay in Toronto, but he also acknowledged that contract negotiations have been challenging. “I love this team and the city, but business is business. We’ll see what happens,” Guerrero stated when asked about his future.
With the 2025 season still a year away, much can change in the baseball landscape. But with Guerrero’s future uncertain and Cohen keeping a close eye on potential opportunities, the possibility of the Mets making a blockbuster move remains
very much alive.
