After a promising 2024 season that saw the Detroit Tigers come up just short of a trip to the American League Championship Series, the buzz surrounding the team for 2025 is growing. Many believe that with the right moves, the Tigers could solidify their lineup and position themselves as serious contenders for the World Series. One name being floated as a potential target is that of Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The Trade Proposal
According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, a proposed trade could see the Tigers acquiring Guerrero Jr. in exchange for a package that includes right-handed pitcher Reese Olson, infielder Jace Jung, right-handed pitcher Matt Manning, and shortstop Jose Dickson.
Breakdown of the Trade:
- Tigers Acquire: 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
- Blue Jays Acquire:
- RHP Reese Olson
- 2B/3B Jace Jung
- RHP Matt Manning
- SS Jose Dickson
As noted by Petzold, Guerrero Jr., a four-time All-Star, is under team control for one more season and is projected to earn approximately $30 million in his final year of salary arbitration before hitting free agency in 2025. His impressive 2024 season saw him hit .323 with 30 home runs and a .940 OPS across 159 games, maintaining his status as a top-10 hitter in baseball for the past four seasons.
The Context of the Trade
While it seems unlikely that the Blue Jays would trade Guerrero this offseason, there are scenarios that could change their stance. If the Blue Jays find themselves unable to sign him to a contract extension, miss out on the lucrative Juan Soto sweepstakes, or decide to reorganize their roster for the future, they may consider trading him before Opening Day 2025.
For the Blue Jays, the return for Guerrero could greatly benefit their rebuilding efforts. Olson is a borderline All-Star pitcher with control through the 2029 season, Jung has a bright future ahead with control until 2030, and Manning is under contract through 2027. Additionally, Dickson, a prospect currently playing in the Dominican Summer League, adds further value to the package.
As the Tigers look ahead to the offseason, the prospect of acquiring a superstar like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has fans buzzing with excitement. With strategic trades and the right additions, the Tigers could very well find themselves in contention for the ultimate prize: a trip to the World Series.
As a Tiger fan, I’d rather have starting pitching, starting with Walker Beuhler, signed as a free agent.
If the Tigers could actually make this trade can you not imagine what a 323 batting average and power numbers could do for our lineup….not to mention how it would help further develope the young hitters we have including what pitches they would see batting around him. More pitching can still be found plus we still have a lot of talent in the minors.
Please get us starting pitching.. I’m seeing Maneaa, Buerhler, maybe bring Verlander back for his last season. But as for the trade is love it
The Tiger fans deserve real stars being added to the team. Not a Zimmerman or Baez. Guerrero would be a good start.
How About Tigers Continue Growing These Kids Into All-Star Players Instead Of Blowing More Money For Overrated Players , $$ BAEZ $$ BAEZ $$ BAEZ …
I’m still not ready to sh*t can Tork or turn the page on him. If you did make this trade and not include him somehow you would get pennies on the dollar for him after the trade. By including Jung they would be “forced” to sign Bregman. Jung is going to rake and Olsen could be an All Star with team conrol for several more years. I personally will not sign off on this deal!
I agree
Not worth it!