Bo Bichette Introduced as Mets’ New Third Baseman
Last season, Bo Bichette and the Blue Jays almost clinched the World Series title, reaching the 11th inning of Game 7, but they ultimately fell short. It’s a bitter memory for him.
At his press conference on Wednesday at Citi Field, he reflected, “This probably helps. To get that close, I don’t know when I’ll get that chance again, but I think this team has a chance to take me there.”
Bichette, now 27, signed a three-year deal worth $126 million that includes an opt-out option after two years. He adds a strong right-handed presence to the lineup, particularly following Pete Alonso’s departure to the Orioles on a five-year, $155 million contract.
Last year, Bichette had an impressive .311 batting average with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs over 139 games, even though he missed the last few weeks of the regular season due to a left knee sprain—he made a comeback in the World Series.
The main question is not really about his offensive skills—he’s consistently posted an .800 OPS or better in six of his seven seasons—but whether he can transition effectively to third base.
Bichette, who was joined by his family, including his father Dante, a former MLB outfielder, expressed confidence about shifting from shortstop. “It takes effort to do anything well, and I’m ready to put in the work,” he stated. “I’m already pursuing it, but I’ll put in even more effort when I get to Port St. Lucie.”
The revamped Mets infield will see Marcus Semien at second base and Jorge Polanco at first, both of whom have played shortstop in the past.
Mets president of baseball operations, David Stearns, noted, “There are going to be days when we have four shortstops in the infield, and that’s definitely an advantage. Sure, there will be a learning curve, but I won’t deny that.”
There’s a recognition that some mistakes might happen, but with elite players in the infield, there’s reason for optimism.
Bichette considered an offer from the Phillies, and their director of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, admitted that losing him was tough. However, Stearns emphasized that the Mets were not simply cherry-picking talent from top rivals for the sake of it.
“Our aim is to bring in players who align with our goals, rather than just taking them from other teams,” he commented.
This week, the Mets also filled a gap in their roster by trading for center fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the White Sox, sending Luis Angel Acuña and minor league pitcher Truman Pauley in return.
When asked about any potential further additions, Stearns mentioned, “We feel good about our positional depth. But at this time in the offseason, anything can happen. We’re keeping our options open.”
Bichette has kept in touch with Semien, his former teammate, in recent days. Semien, who joined the Mets in November, has been a positive influence for him.
“He’s a good player who showed me the ropes and works hard—it’s all about business,” Bichette said. He added that he will continue to look up to Semien for guidance.
Although Semien hasn’t visited Citi Field since the trade, he recently asked Bichette about the team atmosphere, and Bichette seemed pleased to report that the clubhouse has a good reputation.
