The Toronto Blue Jays might face a double dilemma next offseason: retaining Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. Both superstars are integral to the franchise’s identity, but keeping them in Toronto might be easier said than done. Bichette, in particular, could find himself on the radar of the Atlanta Braves, who are in dire need of a premier shortstop.
Braves Eye Bichette for a Shortstop Upgrade
The Atlanta Braves have been one of baseball’s most successful franchises in recent years, but their shortstop situation is far from ideal. Orlando Arcia, once an All-Star, had a disappointing 2024 campaign, creating a glaring need for an upgrade.
Enter Bichette. Despite a subpar 2024 season where he hit just .225, his track record speaks volumes. The All-Star shortstop led the American League in hits in 2021 and 2022 and maintained a career batting average of .299 before last season’s dip.
According to FanSided’s Steven Teal, signing Bichette would be a “no-brainer” for Atlanta:
- Bichette will turn 28 before the 2026 season, an age that offers a prime window for peak performance.
- His offensive prowess and defensive reliability would immediately bolster the Braves’ infield.
This potential move would align perfectly with Atlanta’s win-now strategy, especially if their internal options fail to emerge as viable replacements.
Toronto’s Uphill Battle
The Blue Jays’ front office already has its hands full trying to extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a cornerstone of their lineup. Losing one superstar would be painful; losing both could be catastrophic.
If Toronto struggles in 2025 or fails to demonstrate a commitment to winning, it’s unlikely Bichette or Guerrero would want to stay long-term. The duo’s decision may hinge on the team’s ability to remain competitive and invest in a championship-caliber roster.
The Blue Jays have been proactive before, signing Bichette to a three-year, $33 million extension in 2023. However, with free agency looming, securing his future in Toronto will require a much larger commitment.
Bichette’s Value Beyond the Numbers
Even in a down year, Bichette’s value extends beyond his stats. His ability to drive the offense and deliver in clutch moments makes him a game-changer. Atlanta’s interest underscores this, as the Braves rarely miss opportunities to add high-impact players.
For Toronto, losing Bichette wouldn’t just hurt on the field; it would send a signal to fans and players alike that the franchise is at risk of losing its competitive edge.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
The upcoming season will be pivotal for both Toronto and Atlanta:
- For the Blue Jays: They need to show they can contend and keep their stars happy. A strong season might convince both Guerrero and Bichette to stay.
- For the Braves: Monitoring Bichette’s 2025 performance will be critical. If he bounces back to his All-Star form, expect Atlanta to aggressively pursue him.
For now, Toronto fans can only hope their front office makes the right moves to keep the franchise’s future bright. But with Atlanta lurking, the pressure is on.
