Bo Bichette was formally introduced by the New York Mets on Wednesday, where he discussed his transition from shortstop to third base under a new three-year, $126 million contract. The 27-year-old infielder expressed excitement about joining a contending team and embracing the challenges of playing in New York. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns highlighted the strategic advantage of their infield versatility.
In New York, Bo Bichette began his integration with the Mets by taking ground balls at third base at home before attending his introductory news conference on Wednesday. The natural shortstop, who hasn't played third since high school, signed a three-year, $126 million deal with opt-outs after the first two seasons. This move aligns with the Mets' offseason focus on bolstering run prevention, despite shifting Bichette to a new position.
The Mets also signed Jorge Polanco to a two-year contract, positioning him at first base, an unfamiliar role for him as well. Stearns emphasized the team's infield depth, noting, “There are going to be certain days this season -- probably a lot of days this season -- where we’re going to be playing four shortstops on the infield. And that’s a pretty distinct advantage.” The quartet includes Bichette, Polanco, Francisco Lindor, and Marcus Semien, all primarily shortstops in their careers. Semien has established himself at second base, while Polanco may split time as a designated hitter, potentially sharing first base with Mark Vientos or Brett Baty.
Bichette's transition is pivotal, as he enters free agency after his time with the Toronto Blue Jays. He sought advice from former teammate and five-time Gold Glove third baseman Matt Chapman and plans to work with Mets infield coach Tim Leiper and bench coach Kai Correa during Spring Training next month. Bichette joked about reviewing footage of his father, Dante Bichette, who played one inning at third for the Angels in 1991.
Reflecting on his World Series experience with the Blue Jays, where he missed the first three rounds due to a left knee sprain but returned error-free as a second baseman against the Dodgers, Bichette said, “I think all my ego about shortstop was thrown out the window during the World Series. I just wanted to win.” His knee is now fully healed, and winning remains his priority. Despite a poor range factor at shortstop last season, Stearns believes the shift rightward will suit him: “I think generally, even shortstops who may not have great range as shortstops generally have pretty good range at other positions. And I think Bo is going to be able to handle that just fine at third base.”
Bichette slashed .311/.357/.483 at the plate last year and is eager for New York's intensity. “I don’t think anything can prepare you for New York,” he said. “I’m not unaware that New York is a challenge. I’m not shying away from it. I’m ready for it, and I’m excited for it. These fans hold you accountable, and I think as a player wanting to be your best self, that’s only a positive.”
