This story originally appeared on VICE Sports Canada.The Blue Jays struck big on the first day of baseball's international signing period, inking Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a reported $3.9 million deal. Guerrero, the son of nine-time All-Star and 2004 American League MVP Vladimir Guerrero, was ranked as Baseball America's No. 1 international prospect.
Toronto had long been rumoured to be the favourites to land the 16-year-old Dominican Republic native, who has turned heads with his hitting ability and raw power. The $3.9 million is the second-highest figure the club has ever handed out to an international prospect, behind only the Marlins' Adeiny Hechavarria, who began his career with the Blue Jays before getting traded as part of the 2012 blockbuster that netted Toronto Jose Reyes.
His dad was an athletic freak and feared hitter, too, slashing .318/.379/.553 for his career. Guerrero, known for his cannon from right field as much as his bat, began his career with the Montreal Expos and ended it in the Blue Jays organization after inking a minor league deal with the club in 2012, although he never made it to Toronto.Guerrero Jr., standing 6'1" and 210 pounds, shared a moment with his father following the signing.
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