Mets’ Bichette Experiment Off to a Rocky Start at Third Base
PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – Former Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette is struggling in his transition to third base with the Latest York Mets, raising concerns as spring training gets underway. Bichette, signed to a three-year, $126 million contract with opt-outs after each season, is being asked to play a position he’s never played in the major leagues, with Francisco Lindor firmly entrenched at shortstop. Videos circulating online show the difficulties he’s having adjusting to the new spot, despite expressing a willingness to move positions. Even as Bichette has been a consistent hitter throughout his career – boasting a .292 batting average since 2021 – his defensive shortcomings, previously evident with the Blue Jays (-27 Fielding Run Value), are now under scrutiny as the Mets gamble that his bat will compensate for the defensive risk at the hot corner. The Mets also signed Jorge Polanco to play first base, a position he’s only played one game at in his MLB career.
Mets’ Bichette Transition Raises Eyebrows: Is Offense Enough to Offset Defensive Woes?
The problem with first impressions is you only get one chance to make them, and a former Toronto Blue Jays shortstop hasn’t made a great one with his fresh team. Bo Bichette, who joined the New York Mets as a free agent this past offseason, is transitioning to a new position, and that transition isn’t going well.
A New Position, Familiar Concerns
Bichette is going to be the team’s everyday third baseman, a position he has never played in the major leagues. A ton of video is currently circulating online showcasing his struggles to get acclimated to the new spot. While it’s early in spring training and everyone is working out the kinks, this was certainly something the Mets knew was going to be an issue when they invested a significant amount of money in Bichette.
The Cost of Flexibility
The Mets signed Bichette to a three-year, $126 million deal, with opt-outs after each season. Whereas, they didn’t sign him to be the team’s everyday shortstop, with incumbent superstar Francisco Lindor firmly entrenched there. Bichette expressed a willingness to move positions, and the Mets were the only ones brave enough to take him at his word.
Did you know? Bo Bichette is named after Bo Jackson, a testament to the athletic legacy he aims to follow.
Defensive History: A Pattern of Struggles
While Bichette performed admirably as a second baseman during the World Series, his defensive issues plagued him throughout his seven-year tenure with the Blue Jays. He was worth -27 in Fielding Run Value (according to FanGraphs), with his range set at -24 and his Defensive Runs Saved at -19.
Beyond Bichette: A Broader Defensive Strategy?
The Mets, who were hoping to land Kyle Tucker before he joined the LA Dodgers, had to pivot late in the offseason to get Bichette, in the hopes that the offense would outweigh the defensive deficiencies. They also made the same calculation with Jorge Polanco, who they have signed to play first base, a position he has played only once in his big league career – just one single game.
While they should still be a strong team up the middle with Lindor at short and Marcus Semien at second, it seems the Mets have completely overlooked the defense at the corners. They’ll have to hope that Bichette can at least hit like an average MLB third baseman to make up for it.
Offensive Prowess: A Silver Lining?
As a shortstop, Bichette has been one of the most consistent hitters in the league over the last several seasons. His .292 batting average ranks third among primary shortstops since 2021, while his 121 wRC+ ranks ninth. Within that same time frame, no third baseman has a batting average that high, while only seven primary third baseman have a wRC+ higher than 121.
There are very few people who think his offense won’t be able to translate, but there are many more who think his defense is going to be an issue for the Mets throughout 2026. So far this spring, Bichette hasn’t been able to calm some of those fears.
FAQ
Q: What position is Bo Bichette playing for the Mets?
A: He is transitioning to play third base for the New York Mets.
Q: How much is Bo Bichette’s contract with the Mets worth?
A: His contract is a three-year, $126 million deal with opt-outs after each season.
Q: What were Bichette’s defensive stats with the Blue Jays?
A: He was worth -27 in Fielding Run Value, had a range of -24, and a Defensive Runs Saved of -19.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Bichette’s defensive adjustments throughout spring training. Early performance can often indicate how well a player will adapt to a new position during the regular season.
Will Bichette’s bat be enough to compensate for his defensive shortcomings? Only time will tell, but the Mets are banking on it.
What are your thoughts on the Mets’ gamble with Bo Bichette? Share your opinions in the comments below!