Did you think the Blue Jays were done spending? Well, not yet. Another hundred-million-dollar deal is on its way. The franchise’s 14-year, $500 million agreement for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. establishes a commitment to building around its ace first baseman. Another key player, a dynamic shortstop with offensive and defensive prowess, is nearing a career-defining decision. So, who is he?
Leading the American League in hits twice and garnering two All-Star selections, this man has played a crucial role in the recent Blue Jays victories. Already, there are whispers; the speculative conversation becomes stronger every game. With the talent he possesses, teams all over the league are probably eager at the thought of getting his services. But the question is whether he is also looking to rejoin the Birds of the North. Well, let’s listen to his perspective!
Now enter Bo Bichette, the 27-year-old shortstop whose influence on the field is equaled only by his dreams off it. However, injuries defined a difficult 2024 season. Amid all the challenges, his batting .297 with 10 RBIs in 17 games in the early season shows a return to form. He’s in the 99th percentile for predicted batting average (.354), 83rd for average exit velocity, and 85th for whiff rate, supporting this improvement. These numbers show that his troubles last year were unexpected rather than a deterioration in competence.
Moreover, Bichette’s loyalty to the Blue Jays and his friendship with Guerrero Jr. never wavered. Bichette considered his goals as he started his recovery and said: “I had time to think about what I want, basically, my ultimate goal really is to play with Vladdy forever, to win a championship with him, and to do that with this organization. I’m 100 percent committed to doing whatever it takes to accomplish those things. That’s where I’m at.”
Signed in 2023, Bichette’s present contract—a three-year, $33.6 million one—is scheduled to expire following the 2025 season. Free agency is still to come, hence talks regarding a possible extension have not yet surfaced. However, predictions have still been made. And why not? Clearly, Bichette has expressed his desire to join the Blue Jays.
FanSided’s Jesse Courville-Lynch believes Bichette will ultimately re-sign with the Toronto Blue Jays, even though there are no extension talks with the team. “It’s simple, he’s going to re-sign with the Blue Jays at some point.” Courville-Lynch notes Bichette’s obvious wish to stay in Toronto for his whole career. It is just a matter of time until he and the Blue Jays agree on a new contract.
The Blue Jays’ ability to keep Guerrero Jr. and Bichette could shape their future. They could succeed together, and their presence in Toronto would demonstrate the organization’s vision and dedication to excellence. However, the question is still hanging in the air: Will they offer him a deal?
Bo Bichette’s contract saga
Bo Bichette is approaching free agency cautiously, as is the Blue Jays’ stance. Emphasizing the need for more time to evaluate Bo Bichette’s market value, ESPN’s Buster Olney pointed out both sides are “punting to get to a point where you can place a better value on Bo Bichette.”
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s recent contract with the Blue Jays has altered the team’s financial obligations and priorities. Olney noted that Guerrero Jr’s “took a lot of pressure off the Blue Jays in terms of also signing Bichette,” suggesting the team would be more accommodating in talks with Bichette. The Blue Jays are still assessing their long-term plan, though, as seen by the absence of an early offer.
Bichette’s career marks—a .290 batting average, 93 home runs, and two All-Star selections—highlight his indispensable nature. Although his defensive numbers could use work, his attacking contributions are notable. Bichette’s performance will be closely observed as the season progresses, not only for its impact on the Blue Jays’ performance but also for its effect on his upcoming free agency and potential contract talks.
Bo Bichette’s selection will eventually make for an interesting case study in the contemporary game. It will show the continuing value of personal relationships in an organization. Which is, interestingly, sometimes driven by cold, hard statistics and challenges the boundaries of loyalty in the face of rich opportunities.
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