The New York Mets and Bo Bichette finalized a lucrative three-year contract worth $126 million on Tuesday evening. Last week, both parties reached an agreement, pending a successful physical examination. Bichette opted to join the Mets over the Philadelphia Phillies, and he was officially introduced by the team at Citi Field the following day.
As part of the deal, Bichette will receive a $40 million signing bonus due on March 15, a $2 million salary for the current year, and has player options for $42 million each in 2027 and 2028. In the event that he declines either option, he would be entitled to a $5 million buyout, paid in $1 million increments annually from 2036 to 2040.
Despite being a two-time all-star shortstop with the Toronto Blue Jays, Bichette will transition to third base with the Mets, where Francisco Lindor currently plays shortstop. Notably, Bichette has no prior professional experience at third base.
Mets’ President of Baseball Operations, David Stearns, praised Bichette’s exceptional right-handed hitting skills and power, emphasizing his impact on the team’s lineup. The Mets also made another significant move by acquiring center-fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for infielder Luisangel Acuna and minor league pitcher Truman Pauley.
Bichette’s contract includes a full no-trade clause, and his $42 million average annual value ranks among the top six in MLB history. These signings mark notable additions for the Mets in an active off-season, during which they bid farewell to popular players like Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz. The team also made other key acquisitions, such as closer Devin Williams, infielder Jorge Polanco, and reliever Luke Weaver.
While Bichette’s offensive prowess is valued, his transition to third base presents a defensive challenge for the Mets. The team aims to enhance its defense, with Polanco and Mark Vientos being considered as potential replacements for Alonso at first base.
Bichette’s impressive statistics from the previous season include a .311 batting average, 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and an .840 OPS in 139 games with the Blue Jays. Despite facing a knee injury late in the season, Bichette returned for the World Series and showcased his versatility by playing second base for the first time in six years.
Having rejected a qualifying offer from the Blue Jays, Bichette’s move to the Mets will result in Toronto receiving an additional draft pick after the fourth round. The Mets, in turn, will forfeit certain draft picks and international signing bonus pool allocation.
Turning 28 in March, Bichette has spent his entire professional career with the Blue Jays since being drafted in 2016. As the son of former MLB star Dante Bichette, he brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Mets roster.