The MLB free agency period is heating up, and one of the most compelling storylines involves former Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette. The two-time All-Star has officially hit the open market, and interest from division rivals is intensifying, setting the stage for a potentially franchise-altering move.
Boston Emerges as a Serious Suitor
According to a report from Rob Bradford of WEEI in Boston, the Boston Red Sox have significant interest in signing the now-free agent. Citing multiple sources, Bradford indicated that the Red Sox see Bichette as a potent, right-handed bat who could slot powerfully into the middle of their batting order.
While his defensive capabilities at shortstop have sometimes been questioned, Bichette proved his versatility and reliability during the World Series, even playing effectively at second base while injured. This flexibility makes him an attractive option for Boston, who could also consider him for the third base position, especially with the potential departure of free agent Alex Bregman.
Why Boston Makes Sense for Bichette
The fit for Bichette in a Red Sox uniform is intriguing for several reasons. From an offensive standpoint, he would provide the impact bat the team desperately needs. Before a late-season injury sidelined him for the final three weeks, Bichette was on track to lead all of baseball in hits for the 2025 season.
His familiarity with American League East ballparks is another major plus. In 35 career games at Fenway Park, Bichette has posted an impressive .327 batting average and a .907 OPS, suggesting he is more than comfortable hitting in front of the Green Monster.
A Preexisting Boston Connection
Adding a personal layer to the potential deal is a historical link between Bichette and Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow. Back in 2018, they were briefly teammates on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the Blue Jays' Double-A affiliate. At the time, an 18-year-old Bichette was playing alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a team managed by current Jays skipper John Schneider.
Breslow, then a 37-year-old pitcher attempting a comeback, was brought into the organization partly to mentor young prospects like Bichette and Guerrero. This shared history, however brief, adds an interesting subplot to the free agency negotiations.
What About a Return to Toronto?
Despite the external interest, the door is not closed on a return to the Toronto Blue Jays. Both Bichette and General Manager Ross Atkins have publicly expressed a mutual desire for his free agency to end with a new contract in Toronto.
In the emotional aftermath of the Blue Jays' Game 7 World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Bichette stated, "I've said I want to be here from the beginning." Similarly, Atkins confirmed during his season-ending press conference that the Jays "will be in (Bichette's) market."
However, after a superb 2025 season capped by a legendary three-run homer in the final game of the World Series, Bichette has earned the right to test free agency. Industry projections suggest a long-term deal for the 27-year-old could land in the vicinity of $200 million US, spanning seven to eight years.
The deadline for Bichette to accept a qualifying offer from the Blue Jays passed on November 18 at 4 p.m. ET. He was among nine players who declined the offer, officially cementing his status as a free agent and opening the door for teams like the Red Sox to make their pitch.
