The Toronto Blue Jays face the possibility of losing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to free agency and should start preparing for a future without the star player. While an extension is still possible, it might be prudent to consider trading for a potential replacement.

The Blue Jays have struggled to bring in free agents that would help persuade Guerrero to remain with the team. Despite this, Guerrero stated in an interview with Abriendo Sports that he is still open to negotiating an extension until the first full day of spring training. However, he also mentioned that the two sides are not currently close to finalizing a deal. In light of this, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer suggested a trade with the New York Yankees that could secure a potential successor for Guerrero.

**Blue Jays Receive:** Right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman and first baseman/catcher Ben Rice
**Yankees Receive:** Second baseman Davis Schneider

Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report suggests that while the Blue Jays may not fully feel the Orioles’ struggles, they can relate to missing out on big signings, such as their failed attempt to land Corbin Burnes. Reuniting with Marcus Stroman, who pitched for Toronto from 2014 to 2019, might not completely make up for that miss, but it would help strengthen their rotation. With Stroman joining Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays would have a solid pitching staff. As for Ben Rice, his addition would provide the team with another option at designated hitter for 2025 and possibly as a replacement for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in 2026.

Rice, 25, has had 50 big-league appearances, but with Austin Wells and Paul Goldschmidt ahead of him in the Yankees’ depth chart, he may not have a consistent role in New York next season. A year as the DH in Toronto could help Rice develop his bat, making him a candidate to take over at first base by 2026.

While no player can truly replace Guerrero, taking a chance on Rice could be a cost-effective move for the Blue Jays, allowing them to allocate resources toward other key acquisitions. Rice impressed with seven home runs in his brief stint with the Yankees. Guerrero, a four-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger, and Gold Glove winner, is expected to be one of the top targets of next offseason’s free agent market.