A year ago, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was staring down the final season of his contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, his future with the club uncertain. Fast forward to today, and he’s not only locked in for the long haul, but he’s also carrying the kind of confidence that comes from both financial security and unfinished business.
Guerrero’s 14-year, $500 million extension-inked in early April-was more than just a record-setting commitment. It was a statement. The Blue Jays made it clear: this is Vladdy’s team, and they’re building around him.
And he nearly rewarded that belief in full. Toronto came within inches of a championship, pushing the Dodgers to a Game 7 in the World Series before falling in extra innings. That heartbreak still lingers, but it’s also fueling Guerrero as he heads into 2026 with a new energy.
“We acquired new players, great players. I think this is going to be more fun,” Guerrero said through a team interpreter.
“I’m actually happier than last year. For whatever reason, I’m happier and feeling great.
I have good feelings about this year, and I know we’re capable of doing a lot of good things.”
That happiness isn’t just about the money-though let’s be honest, half a billion dollars doesn’t hurt. It’s about momentum, belief, and a clubhouse that’s evolving in ways that seem to be unlocking something new in Guerrero.
There’s been turnover, sure. Bo Bichette-Guerrero’s longtime teammate and close friend-is no longer in the mix.
But the Blue Jays didn’t stand pat. They brought in slugging sensation Kazuma Okamoto and added firepower to the rotation with Dylan Cease.
The message is clear: the window is wide open, and they intend to charge through it.
“If anything, it allows Vlad to have a louder voice and be more free,” said manager John Schneider. “When you get so locked in with somebody day to day for eight or 10 years, you have that as a norm. I think this is an opportunity for Vlad to have a louder voice and understand that this has been his team, and it’s going to continue to be his team.”
That’s a telling quote. Guerrero has always been the face of the franchise, but with Bichette gone, there’s a new layer of leadership being asked of him. And from all indications, he’s embracing it.
This is a player who just led his team to the brink of a title. Now, he’s more comfortable, more confident, and surrounded by a roster that looks ready to take the next step. A happy Vladdy is a dangerous Vladdy-and if he’s truly feeling as good as he says, the rest of the league better take notice.
Because the Blue Jays aren’t just chasing another deep playoff run. They’re chasing the one thing that eluded them by the slimmest of margins last October: a World Series title. And Guerrero Jr. is ready to lead the charge.