The Blue Jays most contentious offseason decision that they ought to make but won’t..

As the Toronto Blue Jays head into the offseason, there is no shortage of decisions to be made to transform themselves from playoff hopefuls into legitimate World Series contenders. With a talented core of players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and a solid pitching staff, the Blue Jays are on the cusp of greatness. However, one critical and contentious decision looms large—one that could shape the future trajectory of the franchise: trading Vladimir Guerrero Jr. It’s a move they ought to consider but likely won’t.

Trading a star of Guerrero’s caliber would send shockwaves through the baseball world, and understandably so. He has been the face of the franchise since his arrival, showcasing prodigious power, a magnetic personality, and superstar potential. However, despite these qualities, there are several reasons why the Blue Jays might be better off exploring trade options for their prized first baseman this offseason, even though the front office is almost certain to avoid such a dramatic step.

One of the key factors driving the argument for a Guerrero trade is his inconsistent performance in recent seasons. While his 2021 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, where he finished second in MVP voting, Guerrero has struggled to replicate those same levels of production. Inconsistencies at the plate, particularly a drop in power numbers and on-base percentage, have raised questions about whether Guerrero is the generational player many expected him to be. While still a dangerous hitter, his numbers have plateaued, leaving some to wonder if the Blue Jays have already seen his peak.

If the Blue Jays were to capitalize on Guerrero’s value now, they could acquire a massive haul of prospects and established players that might better suit the team’s long-term vision. Trading him could allow Toronto to address multiple areas of need, such as pitching depth, bullpen strength, or even outfield reinforcements, while also giving them flexibility for future contracts and free-agent signings. The return on a trade of Guerrero would undoubtedly be significant, allowing the Blue Jays to potentially reshape their roster for sustained success.

Another argument for a Guerrero trade lies in the Blue Jays’ overall roster construction. First base is generally seen as a position where offensive production is more easily replaced than, say, shortstop, catcher, or center field. While Guerrero is an elite talent, the positional value of first base is less critical to a team’s overall success compared to other key positions. The Blue Jays could potentially find a solid replacement for Guerrero at first base while using the assets acquired from a trade to strengthen more impactful areas of their team.

Additionally, Guerrero’s defensive liabilities have been an ongoing concern. While he has improved at first base since transitioning from third base, his defense remains below average, which hampers his overall value. In an era where defense is increasingly valued, particularly on infield corners, Guerrero’s limitations can be a liability in tight games and playoff scenarios.

Of course, trading Guerrero would be an emotionally charged decision, not just for the front office, but for the fans as well. Guerrero is a fan favorite and the face of the franchise. Trading him could alienate a fanbase that has grown attached to him, making the front office extremely hesitant to pull the trigger. The potential PR backlash could be significant, and the Blue Jays’ leadership may feel that the risks outweigh the possible rewards.

Despite the rational arguments for exploring a Guerrero trade, the Blue Jays are unlikely to seriously entertain such a move. The emotional ties, the fear of trading away a potential superstar, and the public relations ramifications make it too controversial a decision. Yet, as the Blue Jays aim to take the next step toward a championship, it is worth considering whether holding on to Guerrero is in their best long-term interest. Ultimately, it’s a decision they ought to make but almost certainly won’t.