In a significant move that could reshape their roster, Bo Bichette has officially signed a remarkable three-year contract worth $126 million with the New York Mets, as reported by an anonymous source familiar with the discussions. This deal is contingent upon passing a physical examination and has not yet been publicly announced.
Bichette, a two-time All-Star shortstop who previously played for the Toronto Blue Jays, will transition to third base for the Mets, where he will be taking over from the established star, Francisco Lindor, who remains stationed at shortstop. Notably, Bichette has never played a professional game at third base, which adds an intriguing layer of uncertainty to his new role.
One of the unique aspects of this contract is the flexibility it offers Bichette. After the first or second season, he holds the option to opt out and re-enter the free-agent market. Under the terms of the deal, he would earn $47 million if he opts out after just one year or $89 million if he decides to leave after two years. Importantly, the contract does not include any deferred payments, and Bichette benefits from a full no-trade clause. His average annual salary of $42 million ranks among the highest in baseball history, placing him sixth on the all-time list.
This signing comes as part of a transformative offseason for the Mets, who have faced backlash from fans due to key departures, including popular slugger Pete Alonso and ace closer Edwin Díaz, both of whom left through free agency. President of baseball operations David Stearns has also made headlines by trading away other beloved players like outfielder Brandon Nimmo and versatile veteran Jeff McNeil — both of whom were homegrown talents that fans had come to adore.
Continuing to make moves, the Mets have also secured closer Devin Williams with a $51 million, three-year agreement, as well as infielder Jorge Polanco for $40 million over two years, and reliever Luke Weaver for $22 million over a similar period. While Bichette may not possess Alonso’s considerable power, he is recognized as a superb hitter known for his quick hands and ability to drive doubles, which could provide a valuable right-handed complement to the left-handed slugger Juan Soto.
However, Bichette's lack of experience at third base presents a new challenge for the Mets, even as Stearns emphasizes the need for defensive improvements. The team had originally planned to use Brett Baty at third, who is seen as a strong defender. Baty's versatility also allows him to play second base and possibly in the outfield or at first base if the team chooses to reconfigure its lineup.
As a potential alternative, the Mets might consider trading Baty to strengthen their pitching or outfield options. Meanwhile, Gold Glove winner Marcus Semien is set to reinforce the second base position following his acquisition from Texas in a trade involving Nimmo.
Last season, Bichette delivered an impressive performance, batting .311 with 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and an .840 OPS across 139 games for the Blue Jays. He notably hit a home run against Shohei Ohtani during Game 7 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In a dramatic turn late last season, Bichette suffered a sprained left knee during a collision with Yankees catcher Austin Wells on September 6, sidelining him until the World Series. Returning for Game 1 against the Dodgers, he showcased his adaptability by playing second base for the first time in six years.
With a remarkable track record, Bichette led the American League in hits for both 2021 and 2022 and finished as the runner-up in batting average last season, just behind Yankees superstar Aaron Judge. He declined a qualifying offer of $22,025,000 from the Blue Jays in November, which means that if he completes his deal with the Mets, the Blue Jays will receive an extra draft pick next July after the fourth round.
However, this will come at a cost for the Mets, as they are set to forfeit their second- and fifth-highest draft picks, alongside a $1 million deduction from their 2027 international signing bonus pool allocation.
As one of the last high-profile hitters left on the free-agent market, Bichette’s signing follows Kyle Tucker's substantial four-year, $240 million agreement with the Los Angeles Dodgers, further highlighting the competitive nature of this offseason.
Approaching his 28th birthday in March, Bichette has dedicated his entire career to the Blue Jays, having been drafted in the second round in 2016. Over his 748 major league games, he boasts a career batting average of .294, with 111 home runs and an .806 OPS. Interestingly, he is the son of Dante Bichette, a former big league slugger and a four-time All-Star outfielder.
This offseason has certainly been filled with excitement and surprises for the Mets and their fanbase. As the team navigates these changes, how do you think this move will impact their chances in the coming season? Do you believe Bichette can successfully transition to third base? Share your thoughts!
