With spring training just under a month away, MLB teams still have a wealth of free-agent options to explore. As of now, 21 players from FanGraphs’ top 50 free agents remain unsigned, including notable names like outfielder Anthony Santander and third baseman Alex Bregman, who are both on the Kansas City Royals’ radar. However, the pursuit of Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could become the next big headline move in baseball.
Guerrero’s situation is complex. The 25-year-old is set to earn nearly $30 million with the Blue Jays in 2025 after the team finished last in the AL East. Reports indicate that talks between his representatives and the Blue Jays have stalled since before Christmas, and time is running out for a potential extension. With Guerrero’s team control expiring after this season, his age, MVP-caliber production, and potential free agency could make him one of the most sought-after players in the league, comparable to Juan Soto’s free-agent market.
There’s speculation that a trade for Guerrero could be in the works, with multiple teams expected to express interest. Surprisingly, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer listed the Royals as a “long shot worth mentioning” when discussing trade candidates. While Kansas City may seem like an unlikely destination, Rymer points out that Bobby Witt Jr. could benefit from more support in the lineup, as he’s currently surrounded by players with inconsistent performance.
While the idea of the Royals making a big move for Guerrero sounds exciting, the fit is far from ideal. Toronto will likely seek top-tier prospects for just one year of Guerrero, and the Royals may not have the star power in their prospect pool to outbid other teams. Additionally, any team trading for Guerrero would likely want to secure a long-term extension with him, which would be a hefty financial commitment, potentially limiting Kansas City’s ability to address other roster needs.
Another issue is the Royals’ current first-base situation, with Vinnie Pasquantino being a fan favorite and a reliable contributor since his debut in 2022. Though Guerrero’s offensive profile is undeniably superior, replacing Pasquantino or reallocating resources for a position already filled would seem unnecessary, especially when the team’s biggest needs lie in the outfield and bullpen. While Guerrero could potentially shift to third base, this would be a risky move for Kansas City to make long-term.
In conclusion, while the thought of Guerrero joining the Royals is intriguing, it is likely an unlikely scenario. The Royals are better off focusing on practical improvements that directly address the team’s current weaknesses, such as bolstering the outfield and adding bullpen depth. Free agents like Santander and other middle-of-the-order hitters remain available, and the team should prioritize these types of strategic upgrades as they look to build on their 2024 success.
