MLB

Blue Jays sign 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to 14-year, $500 million contract extension

Negotiations between these two parties had become somewhat contentious, and it seemed, at least for a while, that Guerrero Jr. would test free agency after this season. That, however, was before Toronto came in with this offer, which met the slugger’s targeted number. It’s a lofty total, one that should be celebrated by Guerrero Jr. and met with ambivalence by the Blue Jays.

For Guerrero Jr., this extension means security and a likely career-long marriage with the franchise he came up with. The first baseman is off to a shaky start this year, so perhaps signing this deal settles him down and allows him to revert to peak form. That, of course, is no guarantee, and that’s why the Blue Jays should be nervous. Players of Guerrero Jr.’s archetype — heavy sluggers — don’t always age well, though the 26-year-old does have one Gold Glove Award. It’s a mystery as to how this contract will work out for Toronto, but that’s the nature of 14-year mega deals.

Guerrero Jr. is a career .287 hitter with 160 home runs. At his age, 500-plus — and maybe even more — long balls is well within reach. This deal is risky for the Blue Jays, but keeping a franchise icon around isn’t the worst thing in the world.

Grade: C

Brewers receive: SP Quinn Priester

Red Sox receive: CF Yophery Rodriguez and Competitive Balance Round A pick

Milwaukee has a strong recent track record of getting the most out of pitchers, so perhaps it can work some magic with Priester. Still just 24, the right-hander was regarded as a top-100 prospect as recently as a few years ago — evidence that talent isn’t the issue. The issue, of course, with Priester is his MLB effectiveness, or lack thereof. Over 99 2/3 career innings in the big leagues, Priester holds a 6.23 ERA, far from serviceable.

The Brewers are giving up quite a bit to bet on Priester improving, including prospect Yophery Rodriguez. The outfielder hasn’t broken through yet, but he posses plenty of ability. The Competitive Balance Round A selection isn’t immaterial, either. Priester must improve, because if not, Milwaukee is wasting assets on him.

Brewers Grade: C-

Red Sox Grade: A-