The 2024 MLB season is set to bring exciting matchups, including a Tokyo series featuring Shohei Ohtani and the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Chicago Cubs. Other notable dates include the Mets vs. Astros on Opening Day, where Juan Soto debuts for New York, and a clash between the Mets and Yankees, highlighting Soto's first game at Yankee Stadium since his trade.

In June, Terry Francona returns to Cleveland, now managing the Cincinnati Reds, and the All-Star Game will take place in Atlanta. The season wraps up with the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres squaring off in a crucial series that could impact playoff standings.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is reportedly seeking a contract extension worth approximately $500 million, a sum that positions him above other elite players like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto. Negotiations with the Toronto Blue Jays have stalled, with both parties about $50 million apart in their latest talks. The Jays' offer, which includes significant deferrals, translates to a present value between $400 and $450 million, falling short of Guerrero's demands.

With a deadline set for February 18, Guerrero is poised to enter free agency as one of the top hitters available, further complicating the Blue Jays' strategy as they look to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract negotiations with the Toronto Blue Jays have hit a snag, with a reported $50 million gap between Guerrero's expectations and the team's offer. The Jays' proposal, valued at around $500 million, includes significant deferrals, positioning its present-day value between $400 million and $450 million. Guerrero is aiming for a contract that exceeds the $500 million present-day value he believes he deserves. This puts him in contention for a more lucrative deal than Shohei Ohtani's and trails only Juan Soto's record deal.

With a deadline set for February 18, Guerrero appears poised to enter free agency, potentially making him the most coveted player on the market at 26. His impressive performance over the past four seasons, including 136 home runs and an OPS of .887, has solidified his status as a premier talent, driving his contract demands higher. The Blue Jays will have to address Guerrero's substantial aspirations or risk losing him to free agency as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rejected a staggering offer from the Toronto Blue Jays, a deal reportedly worth over $500 million but with significant deferred payments that would lower its present-day value to between $400 million and $450 million. Guerrero indicated he would consider deferrals if the total value remained at $500 million. His move comes as he prepares for a lucrative free agency, with an eye on a contract length similar to Juan Soto's record deal.

Guerrero, at 25 years old, has not been as consistently dominant as other players with mega-contracts, leading to speculation about his true market value. Despite this, his exceptional offensive potential and young age keep him among the top free agents expected next winter, alongside players like Kyle Tucker and Dylan Cease.

Fantasy baseball points leagues are gaining traction as a preferred format among enthusiasts. This updated ranking highlights the top 750 players, meticulously curated by RotoBaller's expert Nick Gaut, emphasizing both hitters and pitchers. Key strategies in points leagues differ from traditional formats, favoring players who excel at drawing walks and limiting strikeouts. Unique scoring systems allow pitchers to earn substantial points through innings pitched, greatly influencing draft strategies.

This ranking reveals the cream of the crop, spearheaded by Shohei Ohtani, whose dual-threat capability places him at the pinnacle. Bobby Witt Jr. and Jose Ramirez follow closely, underscoring the value of versatility. As drafts approach, knowing these key players enhances your chances of assembling a championship-winning roster.