The Toronto Blue Jays face key infield decisions this offseason, with speculation mounting that they might let star shortstop Bo Bichette walk as a free agent. Instead, the team could pursue a trade for Arizona Diamondbacks' All-Star Ketel Marte as a cost-effective alternative. This move would align with their interest in signing outfielder Kyle Tucker.
The Toronto Blue Jays have already bolstered their pitching staff by adding Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Tyler Rogers during the offseason. However, attention now turns to the infield, where homegrown shortstop Bo Bichette remains a free agent. Reports suggest the team is pursuing Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker, and the market for position players is on hold until he signs. If the Blue Jays secure Tucker, financial constraints might prevent them from re-signing Bichette.
A potential alternative is Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte, whom the team is reportedly shopping. The Blue Jays are not on Marte's no-trade list, making a deal feasible. Analysts predict Toronto could allow Bichette to depart and trade for Marte, who offers similar offensive production with superior defense at second base. This shift might involve moving Bichette to second base in the past to address defensive issues, but Marte provides a stronger long-term fit.
Marte, an All-Star in each of the last two seasons, has earned consecutive Silver Slugger Awards. Over those years, he hit 64 home runs with a .913 OPS. His contract, a six-year, $116 million extension signed earlier this year, is team-friendly: $28 million over the next two seasons, followed by $20 million in 2028, $22 million in 2029, and $22 million in 2030, with an $11.5 million player option in 2031.
Acquiring Marte could be cheaper than re-signing Bichette and allow the Blue Jays to later trade him, paving the way for prospect Arjun Nimmala at shortstop or second base. While Toronto can afford Bichette, Marte matches his offense while excelling defensively, especially if Tucker joins the roster.
