Pete Alonso off the board, Blue Jays' should focus on Vladimir Guerrero Jr

Finalizing an extension with Guerrero has been a discussion topic all offseason but we've reached the point where it's make-or-break.

Toronto desperately needs to lock up their star first baseman up for as long as they can.

His reported deadline to work out a deal is Feb. 17 (which is right around the corner) and there isn't a free agent option anywhere near Guerrero's talents.

Extending him is the priority at this point.

The Blue Jays have shown, with their pursuits of Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, that they were willing to spend incredible amounts of money on a deal for 10 or more years.

Even if the Blue Jays make another big splash between now and then, the Vladdy question will hang over the early days of camp.

This decision represents the direction of this organization for years to come

Guerrero is smart when it comes to the business of baseball, and he's grown up over the past couple of years, fully embracing and understanding what this moment means.

He also understands legacy and the allure of representing the Blue Jays -- and yes, a country -- for his entire career. Guerrero hasn't been shy about his desire to stay in Toronto long-term.

If the Blue Jays can get this done before the 2025 season begins, it would be this front office's biggest win to date and immediately reignite a fan base that wants to see its homegrown star stay right where he is.

Luckily for Blue Jays, Alonso spurning their overtures won't result in a ton of subsequent roster changes.

Guerrero can stay at first base, and they can keep Ernie Clement (or some other internal option) at third base so long as they don't sign Bregman.