Bo Bichette and the New York Mets have come to an agreement on a three-year, $126 million deal. No one saw this one coming.
It has been a slow offseason so far for the New York Mets, who have lost multiple key players this offseason. Those contributors include 1B Pete Alonso, CP Edwin Diaz, and OF Brandon Nimmo. However, the team has started to pick up steam after the recent signing of SS Bo Bichette. This signing comes after they attempted to sign free agent OF Kyle Tucker, who decided to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday. The signing of Bichette should cheer up Mets fans now, after everything they have been going through.
However, the team still needs to complete its offseason work. New York is still in search of a new outfielder. Will Sammon of The Athletic has reported that they are actively pursuing OF Cody Bellinger. It won’t be easy, as they’re going through a bidding war with other teams such as the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees.
Why the Deal Could Work for Both Sides
There are several reasons why the deal could work out for both parties. One of the reasons why it could work is due to the playing experience. Bo has experience playing in the Eastern division. He has previously played with the Toronto Blue Jays, who are also an Eastern team in a huge market like the Mets. In his last seven seasons with the Blue Jays, Bichette has slashed .294/.337/.469. Those are solid numbers for sure. He even took Toronto to the Fall Classic last year but ended up losing to the Dodgers in seven games.
Additionally, Bichette is well-acquainted with playing in New York, having even visited during his time with the Blue Jays. That experience came while facing the New York Yankees, the Mets’ cross-town rivals, where he dealt with intense crowds, pressure situations, and constant media attention. That experience should help ease his transition to New York, as he has already proven he can perform in one of baseball’s most demanding environments.
A third reason why this deal could work for both sides is the Mets’ need for the offensive production. After losing key contributors this offseason, New York needed to add a reliable bat to the lineup. The 27-year-old star (28 in March) brings consistent offense and can help stabilize the middle of the order, giving the Mets a player they can depend on.
How does Bichette Fit into the Mets Infield Plans?
One question remains to be answered: how does Bichette fit the Mets’ infield plans heading into 2026? With SS Francisco Lindor anchored as the everyday shortstop, Bichette gives the Mets flexibility elsewhere in the infield. He can play second base or third base, providing a reliable bat and solid defense at a premium position. His versatility allows the Mets to adjust their infield alignment while also keeping players in their natural spots. Bichette’s presence strengthens the infield and adds depth as New York continues to address other roster needs.
Bichette will apparently play third base going forward, though he has never manned the hot corner in the big leagues. He will have to learn a new position, though that is usually a smooth transition for shortstops moving down the defensive spectrum.
Other Needs the Mets Must Address to Ensure a Successful Offseason
Aside from acquiring Bichette via free agency, New York still has work to do to satisfy this fan base. Getting some outfield help remains the top priority for this Mets team. As mentioned earlier, the Mets are trying to bid for Cody Bellinger after missing out on Kyle Tucker. It won’t be easy, as other teams such as the Yankees and Blue Jays are also in the bidding war for the 30-year-old superstar. Bellinger’s asking price is high. He’s currently looking for a seven-year deal. It’s unclear if the Mets are willing to meet his price or contract length, especially when he is in his thirties. If they were able to get him, that would be a steal, especially when this player has previously played for their cross-town rival and main NL challenger.
Addressing the pitching rotation is another priority for New York this offseason. Last season, the Mets’ starting rotation struggled after dealing with multiple injuries to key pitchers. One option would be acquiring a starter via trade, with SP Freddy Peralta emerging as a potential target. Another route would be free agency, where SP Framber Valdez could be a fit if the Mets choose to add a proven arm to the rotation. Either move would help stabilize the pitching staff and address one of the team’s biggest weaknesses.