As the Blue Jays seem more likely than not to launch a defence of their American League title without their one-time star shortstop, Bo Bichette, details leaked on the former all-star’s contract demands could be a potential reason why.
According to a report by the New York Post’s Jon Heyman on Thursday, Bichette is “thought” to be seeking a multi-year deal worth $300 million US.
Though the Jays are a big-budget organization that is outspending all other Major League Baseball teams this off-season, that price tag is likely out of the range they’d be willing to pay for Bichette who, if he were to return to Toronto, it would be as a second baseman.
Cautious as ever, Toronto general manager Ross Atkins hasn’t completely slammed the door on a return of Bichette, whose dramatic World Series Game 7 home run might be remembered as his final act with the team that drafted and developed him.
But the signing this week of Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto seemingly lessens that possibility, especially if the contract demands are that high.
The Post report didn’t cite any further details, but a contract that big would top the most optimistic of projections for the 27-year-old Bichette, who had a terrific 2025 campaign after being dogged by injuries and struggles the previous year. Despite missing the final month of the season due to injury, Bichette was tied for second in hits in all of MLB with 181.
Prior to the Okamoto signing, it was thought that the Jays were heavily involved in the pursuit of both Bichette and outfielder Kyle Tucker. Speculation now has Toronto focussing more on the latter, who is expected to be the highest priced free agent this off-season.
Further adding to the Bichette intrigue, Heyman is also reporting that the New York Yankees have emerged as a player in his pursuit, writing that the Bronx Bombers are “looking more seriously” at the two-time all-star.
And apparently the market for Bichette is starting to heat up in terms of the number of suitors, as well.
The Athletic is reporting that the Philadelphia Phillies are planning to meet with Bichette via video conference “in the coming days.”