Jays slugger Guerrero Jr. says 'no hard feelings' with team after arbitration case

The Toronto Blue Jays used different approaches when it came to the delicate matter of salary arbitration with their two homegrown franchise cornerstones.

The Toronto Blue Jays used different approaches when it came to the delicate matter of salary arbitration with their two homegrown franchise cornerstones.

A year ago, shortstop Bo Bichette and the team agreed to a three-year deal that ensured the two sides wouldn't go through a process that can sometimes be unpleasant. The club was unable to work out something similar with first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who won his arbitration case earlier this month.

The good news for the team is the slugger appears to be in good spirits at the team's development complex as preparations continue for the upcoming season.

"It's part of the business, so no hard feelings," Guerrero said Tuesday, via interpreter Hector Lebron, in his first public comments since the decision.

Guerrero was awarded US$19.9 million when a three-person panel picked his request over the team's offer of $18.05 million. He was on hand in Scottsdale, Ariz., for the hearing while the Blue Jays' case was presented by a lawyer.

The team's decision to go the arbitration route was somewhat eyebrow-raising given the risk for potential acrimony that could impact future contract talks.

The 24-year-old first baseman, who earned $14.5 million last year, is under team control for two more seasons. Unless his contract is extended, he'll become eligible for free agency after the 2025 campaign.