The Blue Jays failed to retain Vladimir Guerrero Jr. this week, setting up an interesting arms race for the superstar slugger.

Toronto didn’t meet Guerrero’s contract extension deadline Monday, forcing the 25-year-old to challenge his club to “compete with 29 more teams” for his services. The four-time All-Star still wants to be with the Blue Jays but cost will be a major factor.

The New York Post’s Jon Heyman identified four teams as the favorites to sign Guerrero. However, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand on Tuesday narrowed down the field to two clubs.

“If there is one thing we have learned, it’s that the Mets are going to be in play for any free agent that piques their interest,” Feinsand wrote in a roundtable column. “With (Pete) Alonso potentially opting out of his contract after this season, there could be an opening at first, where Vladdy would pair nicely in the lineup with Juan Soto. That said, I don’t expect the Blue Jays to go quietly in their pursuit of re-signing Vladdy, who has been the face of the franchise since he made his debut. Toronto needs to bring him back, though it remains to be seen whether the Blue Jays will pay what it takes to do so.

“To me, it’s shaping up to be a two-horse race for his services. The big question will be how much either of those teams — or any other club, for that matter — will be willing to pay. …”

Guerrero is projected to earn a hefty contract, but as Feinsand noted, New York is willing to pay whatever it takes to lock up a free agent. Steve Cohen stepped in and gave Soto the best offer to beat out other suitors like the Boston Red Sox.

It would be a huge blow for the Jays if they lost out on signing Soto and then saw Guerrero leave and team up with him on the Mets. That said, Toronto will still be given a chance to make sure its superstar doesn’t leave.