Blue Jays Star Bo Bichette Expected Near $200M Free Agent Deal

Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays is having a standout season, rebounding strongly from a difficult 2024 campaign and positioning himself as one of the top free agents in the upcoming MLB offseason. Leading the American League in hits for a potential third time, Bichette is batting around .297 with notable power numbers, including 16 home runs, which has drawn projections for a lucrative long-term contract, possibly in the seven- to eight-year range worth around $150 million or even up to $200 million. While the Blue Jays have already secured Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with a massive extension, they face pressure to retain Bichette, who has expressed a desire to stay alongside Guerrero, but the team has yet to finalize an extension amid competition from other franchises. Toronto Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro has indicated that contract negotiations with Bichette will occur, emphasizing the team's intention to try to keep him. Despite Bichette's recent resurgence and significance to the team's success, some analysts view the Blue Jays as holding a leverage advantage in negotiations due to his recent injury history and past underperformance, though his current form and skill set suggest he will command a top-tier contract on the open market. Ultimately, Bichette's free agency battle will be a key storyline this offseason as he seeks a deal reflective of his status as a premier MLB shortstop.