Vladdy opens up on contract negotiations, says move to first base was punishment in wide-ranging interview

After news came out that Vladdy and the Blue Jays weren't close in their mutual desire for a long-term deal, a Spanish-speaking Blue Jays fan took some time to translate some of the interview highlights for the Gate 14 Podcast

While Vlad wouldn't disclose the exact number, he did say it was around the $340MM that was recently noted by Carlos Baerga and Mike Rodriguez. He also says that that figure has moved since the signings of both Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto

He explained that he wants to stay a Blue Jay, and is ready to sign a long-term deal on the spot should they meet his asking price. However, he also understands that baseball is a business and is ready and prepared for a trade.

But he knows that Blue Jays clearly have the money to offer him, especially after their high-profile suits of Ohtani and Soto..

One surprising and curious thing he did mention was that his move from third base to first base at the beginning of the 2020 season was punishment for a showing up to camp out of shape and overweight. A fact which he acknowledges. He does mention however, that this was communicated to him by then-manager Charlie Montoyo.

He does appreciate how up-front and straightforward the organization has been with him, in spite of Ross Atkins not being present at his arbitration hearing.

As for his down years in 2022 and 2023? Vlad says he had a lot of off-the-field personal issues that were affecting his performance. Those are all behind him now.

He also mentions that he doesn't work on his defence in the offseason, but rather just goes to the gym and swings for two hours.

While Vlad's candidness is admirable, there is always a risk to being this open about the inner-workings of the politics of baseball. As of yet, there has been no response from either Ross Atkins or Mark Shapiro.

The Blue Jays have until the beginning of Spring Training to work out a deal. The first grapefruit league match is February 22nd against the Yankees.