Payoff Pitch Podcast: Guerrero Jr.'s Contract, Steele To IL, NL West's Hot Start

On a new episode of the Payoff Pitch Podcast, "On SI" writers Brady Farkas, Jack Ankony and Brandon Brown discuss Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s $500 million contract with the Blue Jays, Cubs pitcher Justin Steele heading to the injured list, the competitive NL West, young players emerging and more.

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero (27) against the Baltimore Orioles at Rogers Centre. / John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Toronto Blue Jays made a big splash, officially announcing Wednesday they've signed homegrown slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a 14-year, $500 million contract.

That has perhaps been the most notable move during the first two weeks of the 2025 MLB season, but other interesting storylines have also emerged. On a new episode of the Payoff Pitch Podcast, "On SI" writers Brady Farkas, Jack Ankony and Brandon Brown discussed a variety of topics.

Along with their thoughts on Guerrero Jr.'s massive contract, they talked about the impact of Cubs pitcher Justin Steele heading to the injured list and potential trade involving Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado. They also broke down a highly competitive NL West division, contrasted by an underwhelming start for the AL West, as well as other topics around MLB.

Watch the full episode below.

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