Blue Jays: Guerrero Jr. wins record $19.9 million in salary arbitration

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) – Wladimir Guerrero Jr. won a record $19.9 million in salary arbitration Wednesday after his appeal was picked up by a three-member panel. Toronto $18.05 million offer from the Blue Jays.

Scott Buchheit, Walt De True and Jeanne Charles made the decision a day after hearing arguments. Players have a 6-2 advantage in hearings this year, with 10 cases pending.

Guerrero received the highest award from the hearing — the $14 million Seattle outfielder Teoscar Hernandez received last year after losing.

Guerrero, a three-time All-Star first baseman, hit .264 with 26 homers and 94 RBI last year when he had a $14.5 million salary. He is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season.

The son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, Guerrero Jr. turns 25 next month. He has a .279 average with 130 homers and 404 RBI in five seasons with the Blue Jays.

Guerrero's best season came in 2021, when he hit .311 with 48 home runs and 111 RBIs, leading the major leagues. He won the Gold Glove in 2022 and won the All-Star Home Run Derby last year in Seattle, matching his father's feat in 2007 in San Francisco.