Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Defends $500 Million Contract Amidst Blue Jays' Struggles
The Toronto Blue Jays slugger addresses fan criticism and his own performance, stating his contract was based on past achievements.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has responded to criticism regarding his substantial contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, attributing the scrutiny to his own performance in a disappointing 2026 season. The star first baseman acknowledged the pressure accompanying his 14-year, $500 million extension, particularly from Toronto fans who have witnessed a downturn in both his and the team's play.
"The contract I got was based on what I did, not necessarily for what I’m going to do," Guerrero told Telemicro News, as translated by Héctor Gómez. "I understand why the fans believe it’s the other way around. Sometimes I think that way too, like, ‘Oh, they give me this money and I’m not doing enough,’ but you know I try my best and I’m working hard."
Guerrero, 27, has struggled to meet the MVP-caliber standards set in previous seasons. Entering Wednesday's play, he was batting .263 with nine home runs, 56 RBIs, and a .695 OPS. This marks a significant drop from his previous five full seasons, each of which saw him hit at least 23 home runs. A particularly unusual aspect of his season was not hitting a home run at Rogers Centre until September 13.
Guerrero's struggles have coincided with a difficult season for the Blue Jays, who entered Wednesday with a 77-80 record and are unlikely to make the postseason after reaching the World Series the previous year. The slugger noted that fan support has wavered with his production.
"The fans, I know how they are," Guerrero said. "When you are doing great they are 100 percent behind you, but when you are not at your best, not everybody is behind you, almost nobody supports you."
He distinguished these fans from those he considers his "real fans," who offer consistent support regardless of his performance. "Those are my real fans, the ones that are supporting me all the time."
