Even as the start of Spring Training rapidly approaches, several notable free agents remain available to sign. The group includes Bo Bichette, who has spent his entire career with the Toronto Blue Jays to this point.
Bichette is coming off a strong season that saw him hit .311/.357/.483 with 44 doubles, 18 home runs and 94 RBI in 139 games. He has drawn interest from several teams and was projected to command a seven-year contract worth around $200 million at the start of the offseason.
The Blue Jays have been one of the most aggressive teams this winter, signing the likes of Dylan Cease, Kazuma Okamoto, Cody Ponce and Tyler Rogers. They also remain linked to Kyle Tucker, who is widely considered the top free agent.
Given their recent moves and ongoing pursuit of Tucker, the Blue Jays are not considered likely to re-sign Bichette, via Mitch Bannon of The Athletic:
The Toronto Blue Jays remain linked to All-Star hitters Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker. Although league sources said the Jays have increased their efforts to recruit Tucker, who remains a roster fit after the signing of Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto, a reunion with Bichette appears increasingly unlikely.
Bichette has mostly played shortstop since making his Blue Jays debut in 2019, but Andres Giménez is expected to slide over to the position this year with Ernie Clement becoming the everyday second baseman.
Anthony Santander and George Springer also figure to split the reps at designated hitter, leaving little to no opportunities for Bichette if he were to re-sign.
The Blue Jays theoretically could trade Santander to create an opening for Bichette, but there is no guarantee that a team would take on the remainder of his five-year, $92.5 million contract.
Bichette returning to the Blue Jays seemingly would only be realistic if his market never develops and he is willing to sign a short-term deal in order to test free agency again in the near future.
Dodgers interested in Bo Bichette
As the Los Angeles Dodgers continue their search for a position player, they reportedly have checked in on Bichette, who likely would play second base if a signing comes to fruition.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
