Another MLB season, another jaw-dropping contract — this time, it’s Vladimir Guerrero Jr. signing a 14-year, $500 million extension with the Blue Jays. What does that mean for the Braves? One word: Acuña.
Ronald Acuña Jr. signed an eight-year, $100 million deal with Atlanta after his rookie season — a bargain, especially after his unanimous MVP win in 2023. But last season was a reminder that even team-friendly deals come with risk. Acuña suffered his second ACL tear, highlighting the gamble Atlanta took. From the player’s perspective, locking in life-changing money early is smart, and for Acuña, there’s still a shot at a major payday in the future. His current deal runs through 2028, setting him up to hit free agency just before turning 31. That’s older than Guerrero is now, but he could still command a massive contract — possibly another $400+ million deal over 10+ years.
Whether Atlanta would offer that kind of money is unclear. They could try to extend him before he hits the open market, but given his injury history, that decision is complicated.
On another note, Guerrero’s deal makes the Braves’ contract with Matt Olson look even better. Olson is locked in for $168 million over eight years — a steal considering his production is on par with Guerrero’s.
Between 2021 and 2024, Guerrero has averaged a .293/.370/.517 slash line with 34 homers and an .887 OPS. Olson, during that same stretch, has hit .260/.355/.519 with 39 home runs and an .874 OPS. Guerrero’s numbers are slightly better, but his average annual salary exceeds $35 million, compared to Olson’s $21 million — a clear win for the Braves financially.
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