The Phillies swung big this offseason - and missed. Bo Bichette, the All-Star shortstop many in Philly had penciled into the lineup, is heading to Queens instead. The New York Mets unveiled their newest star on Wednesday, and if you’re a Phillies fan, his comments probably didn’t sit too well.
Let’s be honest: this one stings.
Philadelphia was widely considered the frontrunner to land Bichette. The front office was aggressive, the interest was mutual, and the fit made sense. But then the Mets swooped in, and just like that, Bichette became the latest high-profile name to join the NL East arms race - only not in red pinstripes.
Bichette’s Message: Winning and... the Mets?
At his introductory press conference at Citi Field, Bichette didn’t hold back his excitement about joining New York. He talked about the Mets’ commitment to winning, praised the roster, and made it clear he’s energized by the fanbase and the city.
“My first priority is winning, and obviously this organization is doing everything they can to do that,” Bichette said. “The roster is great… and playing in front of fans like this is a pretty cool opportunity.”
Now, if you’re a Phillies fan, you might be raising an eyebrow right about now. After all, it was Philadelphia - not New York - that won the NL East last year.
The Phillies made a serious postseason run. The Mets?
They were watching October baseball from the couch.
So when Bichette talks about winning, it’s fair for fans in Philly to question what, exactly, he means. Because while the Mets are certainly trying to build something, the Phillies are already there. And yet, Bichette chose the rebuild over the ready-made contender.
The Contract Twist
Money talks - and in this case, it shouted.
The Mets gave Bichette a three-year, $126 million deal with player opt-outs after each of the first two seasons. That’s $42 million per year with the flexibility to re-enter free agency if his value climbs even higher. The Phillies reportedly offered seven years and $200 million - a longer-term commitment, but with no opt-outs and a lower annual payout.
So if you’re Bichette, and you’re looking to maximize your earnings and keep your options open, the Mets deal is tough to beat. He’ll make nearly $14 million more in 2026 than he would have in Philly. And if he plays like the star he is, he can opt out and cash in again - potentially at an even higher number.
From a business standpoint, it’s a savvy move. From a Phillies fan’s perspective?
It’s frustrating. You had the player in your sights, you met his price, and you still lost out.
What Really Happened?
The Phillies and Bichette met on January 12. Talks progressed.
By all accounts, things were moving in the right direction. The team was willing to meet his asking price - just not with the structure he ultimately wanted.
That’s where the Mets separated themselves. Their front office was willing to go shorter on term, higher on annual value, and - crucially - offer player-friendly opt-outs. That flexibility was a game-changer.
Bichette even acknowledged that he had “good conversations” with other teams, but ultimately felt it was “very obvious” he wanted to be a Met. That line probably won’t sit well in Philadelphia, especially considering how close the two sides reportedly were.
Where Do the Phillies Go From Here?
This isn’t just about losing a star free agent. It’s about how the Phillies approach roster building in a league that’s increasingly favoring short-term, high-AAV deals with opt-outs - especially for players in their prime.
Philadelphia’s front office has been cautious about the luxury tax threshold. That’s understandable, but in today’s market, that caution can cost you. The Mets, meanwhile, continue to operate like a team that’s all-in - and it’s paying off in the form of marquee signings.
It’s easy to direct frustration at Bichette for choosing a division rival. It’s tempting to take shots at the Mets for “stealing” a player who seemed destined for Philly. But the real frustration might be better aimed at the Phillies’ front office - not for lack of effort, but for being outmaneuvered in a changing free-agent landscape.
Looking Ahead
Circle the date. The first time the Mets come to Citizens Bank Park this season is going to be electric.
Bichette will get an earful, no doubt, and Phillies fans will be ready. But this isn’t just about one player or one series.
It’s about two franchises moving in very different directions - and how the decisions made in January could shape the race in September.
For now, the Phillies are still contenders. But they missed a chance to get better.
And the Mets? They just added a major piece - and maybe, just maybe, shifted the balance of power in the NL East.