The Toronto Blue Jays are trying to secure the cornerstone of their franchise this offseason, but it is reportedly not close to happening.

Per ESPN's Alden Gonzalez, the Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have been in talks about an extension, but "are not considered to be close on one." Gonzalez noted that the hesitancy from Guerrero could affect Toronto's ability to bring in free agents and reported that a trade could be coming if the two sides can't reach a deal.

After missing out on Shohei Ohtani last offseason, the Blue Jays made a hard push for Juan Soto this year but once again couldn't lure a superstar to Toronto. After failing to land those two stars, the Blue Jays could have trouble retaining their current star if they allow Guerrero to make it to free agency without an extension.

Guerrero had 30 home runs and 103 RBI a season ago. While his power wasn't quite that of the 2021 season when he had 48 homers and 111 RBI, he posted the best batting average of his career at .323 in 2024.

Assuming Guerrero, 25, has similar production in 2025, he should be due for a big payday when he hits free agency, whether that contract comes from the Blue Jays or elsewhere is to be determined.

Spotrac lists Guerrero's market value at a 12-year, $462 million contract. Plenty of teams would be willing to pay that or more next year if the Blue Jays don't.

But as Gonzalez noted, a trade could come before a new deal for Guerrero. That might not be the ideal situation for Toronto, but it would at least give the Blue Jays some pieces to use as they work toward a rebuild.