Vladimir Guerrero Jr. set a firm deadline for a contract extension before the MLB season, aiming to wrap up negotiations before reporting to Blue Jays camp on Tuesday. He made it clear that without an agreement by his deadline, he would enter free agency after the 2025 World Series.

With the deadline now passed and no extension in place, Guerrero officially confirmed the situation to reporters on Tuesday.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has made it clear he won’t negotiate a contract extension during the season, setting the stage for his potential free agency in November, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Guerrero noted that Toronto didn’t come close to his desired number for an extension, but despite that, he remains hopeful about staying with the Blue Jays long-term (via Keegan Matheson of MLB.com).

Following the news of failed extension talks, Guerrero posted on Instagram while listening to Drake’s God’s Plan, signaling his trust that things will unfold as they should. After avoiding arbitration, he is set to earn $28.5 million for the 2025 season before becoming an unrestricted free agent once the World Series concludes.

Coming off a stellar 2024 season with a .940 OPS—sixth-best in MLB—and his second career top-10 MVP finish, Guerrero has positioned himself as one of the most coveted free agents in recent years.