Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Apologizes for Remarks on $500M Blue Jays Contract, 'I Regret My Comments'

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sparked backlash after recent comments regarding the 14-year, $500 million contract extension he signed last offseason, and now the six-time All-Star is profusely apologizing for his remarks as his tough 2026 campaign nears its end.

During an interview with Veronica Batista on the program, "Grandes Ligas," Guerrero had this to say (Spanish-to-English translation via ESPN):

"I want people to understand one thing. The money they gave me wasn't for what I'm going to do. It was for what I already did," Guerrero told Batista. "They didn't pay me because I'm going to hit 40 [home runs] every year. They paid me for what I already accomplished. People are confused about that, but I think the same way they do. Like, sometimes I even say to myself, 'Bro, they gave you all that money and you're out here doing nothing.' But I try.

"You know how it is with fans, when you're good, they're with you 100%. But when you smell like s---, like we like to say here, nobody supports you. The ones who support you are the ones who stay with you. Those are my real fans and I considered them my family."

Last year, Guerrero nearly helped guide the Blue Jays to their first World Series title since 1993. He hit .292 (.848 OPS) with 23 home runs and 84 RBI before following that up with a scorching-hot postseason (eight home runs, 17 RBI, .397 average, 1.289 OPS).

However, this season has been a nightmare for Guerrero and the last-place Jays. The eight-year veteran's numbers have dipped significantly (nine home runs, 56 RBI, .263 average, .695 OPS).

As John Henry of MLB.com noted, Guerrero has dealt with back and hamstring issues during this season. He also suffered a concussion after a collision with New York Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr.

Naturally, Blue Jays fans may not want to hear that Guerrero was paid for his past accomplishments, considering (a) his performance and (b) the length and money on his upcoming contract years.

Guerrero initially doubled down on his initial remarks.

"No, I don't regret myself. I'm not lying with what I say," Guerrero said via an interpreter, per ESPN. "I understand some fans, they don't understand the way and what I was trying to say specifically, but what I said is the way I feel."

However, Guerrero has since changed his stance.

The 2026 season was a lost one for a Blue Jays squad that saw a host of players regress after a tremendous and magical 2025 campaign.

Next season, should there be one in the face of a potential lockout, brings new hope that this team, led by Guerrero, can meet its ceiling and bounce back.