Why Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extension update should make Blue Jays fans optimistic

The rumors building around Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have been quite exhausting, but there is finally some good momentum around Toronto possibly retaining him. While the Blue Jays have reportedly not talked to his team about an extension since before Christmas, which obviously has Guerrero Jr. considering his options about his future, the Blue Jays are expected to start talks up again before his self-imposed deadline of Feb. 17, according to an article from Ken Rosenthal.

That is great news - and so is his reportedly willingness (and enthusiasm) to switch to third base, the position he played in the minor leagues as a top prospect.

This would open the door for the Blue Jays to sign free agent first baseman Pete Alonso, who is unlikely to return to the New York Mets. Getting Alonso to join Guerrero Jr. in the lineup would be great, but long-term, that represents a downgrade at first base. Obviously, if they can keep both long term, it would be a major improvement to the lineup.

There is finally some optimism around a Blue Jays extension for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

The article also shut down any trade rumors involving Guerrero Jr., which is another sign that shows the Jays' willingness to work out an extension. Despite being a rental to a team for 2025, he would still net a very strong return that could save a very poor Toronto farm system. If they fail to extend him, maybe a trade would not be the worst idea, but these reports make it seem like an extension is very plausible.

It would be huge for the Blue Jays' front office to work out a deal for Guerrero Jr.. He is willing to move to third base, which would open the door for Alonso, and has set a deadline for the Blue Jays to work something out by. They are not interested in trading him, so let's see if they do find a way to keep the star first baseman in Toronto. The "Christmas break" in talks is worrisome, but their aversion to a trade and willingness to open the books a month ahead of Guerrero Jr.'s benchmark should be cause for optimism. After missing out on so many external faces this offseason and last, the Jays know they need to take care of their own -- or risk losing the fanbase forever.

MLB insiders have labeled the Red Sox as a team to watch out for with Guerrero Jr. becoming a potential free agent. Now, it's the Blue Jays' turn to do anything possible to avoid that fate.