The New York Mets have made some significant moves this offseason, bringing in a slew of talent to bolster their bullpen, rotation, and particularly their lineup. Gone are familiar faces like Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Jeff McNeil, replaced by new stars including Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert Jr., Marcus Semien, and the headline acquisition, Bo Bichette.
However, Mets fans might be feeling a twinge of concern about Bichette. It's not his offensive prowess that's in question-it's his defense. A viral video has highlighted some shaky moments that suggest Bichette might struggle at third base this season.
In the video, shared by an Atlanta Braves fan on social media, Bichette's defensive mishaps are on full display. He appears to have trouble fielding cleanly, with balls sometimes bouncing off his glove. More troubling is his footwork; instead of attacking ground balls, he waits for them, increasing the likelihood of errors.
Before Bichette even suited up for the Mets, there were whispers about his defensive capabilities. According to Baseball Savant's Fielding Run Value, he posted a -10 last season, tying for the 11th-worst among all fielders and ranking as the worst among infielders in 2025.
While Bichette's offensive stats shine, his defensive metrics tell a different story. He's in the 1st percentile for Outs Above Average, and his arm strength lingers in the 36th percentile. These stats, combined with the viral video showcasing his struggles, raise valid concerns about his transition to third base.
The Mets were aware that Bichette's defense might be an issue, but the recent footage hasn't exactly quelled those fears. The hope is that Bichette will grow more comfortable at third base as the season progresses. While it's possible he'll adapt, there's no denying the current apprehension surrounding his defensive role in 2026, especially given his hefty $126 million contract.