The Toronto Blue Jays are on the cusp of a pivotal season, with the future of their star player, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., hanging precariously in the balance. As the team navigates the complexities of contract negotiations, fans are left wondering if they will be able to retain the services of their beloved slugger. The situation is a stark reminder of the what-ifs that have plagued the franchise since the departure of former general manager Alex Anthopoulos, who has gone on to achieve unparalleled success with the Atlanta Braves.

Anthopoulos's tenure with the Blue Jays was marked by a series of bold moves, including the acquisition of key players that propelled the team to the playoffs in 2015. However, his departure has left a lasting impact on the franchise, with many questioning the decision to let him go. In the years since, the Blue Jays have struggled to replicate the success of that season, with Guerrero's impending free agency serving as a harsh reminder of the team's inability to lock up their young stars. The stats are telling: since Anthopoulos's departure, the Blue Jays have failed to make a deep playoff run, while the Braves have won six consecutive NL East division titles under his guidance.

As the Blue Jays weigh their options regarding Guerrero's future, they would do well to consider the approach taken by Anthopoulos in Atlanta. The Braves have made a concerted effort to lock up their young talent, signing players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies to long-term deals. This strategy has paid dividends, with the team establishing a strong core that has been instrumental in their success. In contrast, the Blue Jays have been criticized for their handling of Guerrero's contract negotiations, with many feeling that they should have made a more concerted effort to sign him to a long-term deal earlier in his career.

The situation has sparked a flurry of trade rumors, with teams like the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox reportedly interested in acquiring Guerrero's services. While a trade is not out of the question, it's clear that the Blue Jays would need to receive a substantial offer in order to consider parting with their star player. The Mets, in particular, have been mentioned as a potential suitor, with their deep pockets and willingness to spend making them an attractive destination for top talent. However, any deal would need to be carefully considered, with the Blue Jays weighing the potential benefits of a trade against the risk of losing a player who has been instrumental in their success.

As the drama surrounding Guerrero's future continues to unfold, fans are left to ponder the key moments that have led to this point. From the departure of Anthopoulos to the team's inability to lock up their young stars, there are many what-ifs that will continue to haunt the franchise. Ultimately, the decision regarding Guerrero's future will have a lasting impact on the team, with the potential to shape the course of their season and beyond. Here are some

• Key statistics that highlight Guerrero's importance to the team:
• A .284 batting average and 102 home runs over the past three seasons
• A .922 OPS and 155 RBIs over the same period
• A strong defensive presence at first base, with a .995 fielding percentage

As the Blue Jays navigate this critical juncture, they would do well to consider the long-term implications of their decision, with the goal of building a sustainable winner that can compete for years to come.