Bo Bichette's offseason journey was one of the most intriguing narratives in baseball. As one of the top free agents, his offensive prowess was never in doubt. However, the buzz around him wasn't as loud as expected, primarily because teams were hesitant to sign him as a shortstop, his position since debuting with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2019.
Now, there's a curious comparison making the rounds, likening Bichette's situation to that of Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod famously shifted from shortstop to third base when he joined the Yankees, allowing Derek Jeter to remain at short.
But let's be clear: Bichette's move to third base with the Mets isn't about sentimentality or deference to Francisco Lindor. It's a strategic decision, influenced by questions about his defensive capabilities at shortstop.
Joel Sherman from the New York Post highlighted this comparison, noting that both A-Rod and Bichette found it easier to move when it meant accommodating a star player. Bichette himself acknowledged that playing for a team with a player like Lindor, who's on a Hall of Fame trajectory, made the transition smoother. He also mentioned that his ego about playing shortstop diminished after he played second base in the World Series.
Breaking this down, Bichette's journey to the Mets wasn't under any illusion of playing shortstop. The Mets' owner, Steve Cohen, was keen to make a splash after losing out on Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers. As a result, they offered Bichette a lucrative three-year, $126 million deal with opt-outs, ensuring they secured a marquee player.
Earlier in the offseason, Bichette had already shown a willingness to change positions to secure a deal. His adaptability was evident when he returned from a potential season-ending injury to hit .348/.444/.478 in the World Series, including a crucial home run in Game 7.
However, his defensive limitations were also on display when he was stranded at third base early in that decisive game. During his absence, Andrés Giménez had proven himself as a more reliable defender at shortstop, leaving Bichette with limited options.
While Bichette's move to the Mets might sting for some fans, many have come to terms with it, wishing him success in his new role. Ultimately, his switch to third base wasn't about stepping aside for Lindor; it was a practical decision, driven by market dynamics and a hefty contract offer. Bichette followed the money and opportunity to the hot corner, marking a new chapter in his career.