The Mets aren’t slowing down their aggressive pursuit of star talent. After landing Juan Soto with a massive $765 million deal, they’re now eyeing Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
With Guerrero entering his final year before free agency, the Mets are uniquely positioned to make a serious play for the Blue Jays’ cornerstone first baseman. They’ve got both the prospects and the financial muscle to pull off another blockbuster.
“Given the demands the Jays have set, trading for Guerrero is only doable for a very short list of teams,” Jacob Mountz wrote for FanSided. “But which contender has the best shot at landing him? Look no further than the New York Mets.”
What makes this possible is how the Mets have managed their prospect capital. Even with their winter spending spree, they’ve kept their young talent largely intact. That’s opened the door for a potential package centered around Mark Vientos, who crushed 27 homers last season.
A proposed deal would send Vientos, shortstop prospect Jett Williams (their No. 2 ranked prospect), Ronny Mauricio (No. 6), and veteran outfielder Starling Marte to Toronto. That’s a substantial offer, but it’s structured in a way that lets the Mets keep several key pieces.
The Mets would still hang onto their top prospect Brandon Sproat, Drew Gilbert (No. 3), Brett Baty, and Luisangel Acuña. That’s crucial depth they’d need if they’re planning to extend Guerrero beyond 2024.
There’s some risk here – Vientos would leave a hole at third base that needs filling, and Guerrero could walk after one season. But the Mets seem willing to bet on thier ability to keep him long-term.
The way things are shaping up, the Mets aren’t just building a contender for 2024 – they’re positioning themselves as a destination franchise for baseball’s biggest stars. Adding Guerrero to a lineup that already includes Soto would give them one of the most fearsome offensive cores in baseball.
