With the Toronto Blue Jays signing their biggest star in Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a long-term deal, Bo Bichette is next in line for an extension. Bichette is off to a hot start this year. After being limited to only 81 games last year, he has kicked off this year strong, hitting .288/.348/.356 with four extra-base hits (all doubles) in 59 at-bats. He would become a free agent following this season, and the last thing the Blue Jays want is to face him on another team. Bichette’s value could also increase if he continues to perform well this season.
His consistent hitting and on-base ability have made him deserving of an extension. According to Baseball Savant, he has a whiff rate of 15.3% that ranks in the 92nd percentile of MLB this year. With his teammate and close friend, Vlad Jr. extended to the biggest contract in Blue Jays history, he certainly appears next in line. The Blue Jays have their eyes set on building a winning team, which is why Bichette will hopefully be the next star to be re-signed.
Bo Bichette, who’s a pending free agent, speaks on his future with the Blue Jays pic.twitter.com/2If2kKYDy8
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 8, 2025
Why Bo Bichette Deserves an Extension
Toronto’s leadoff hitter has more than earned an extension over his six-plus seasons with the team. General Manager Ross Atkins remains optimistic about the future of his shortstop. He’s demonstrated so far this season why he deserves to be the leadoff hitter. It’s true that his injury-riddled season last year is one he’d like to forget, and this season he still needs to prove himself. But Bichette has already proven early in 2025 why he deserves an extension with his consistency in getting on base. He’s returning to his form, a positive sign from the shortstop.
Tonight’s game-winner: Bo Bichette 👏 pic.twitter.com/qdwgpChpd3
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) April 10, 2025
Bichette’s Assets
Bichette is still young and has a lot of room to grow as a player. He is a valuable asset to the Blue Jays, especially on account of his reliable hitting. He was the AL leader in hits in 2021 and 2022, as well as sustaining a high batting average and improvement in his defensive play. While his defense may not be top-notch, it is an area he has already improved in, and one he can continue to work on. Bichette’s desire to also remain with the Blue Jays as a homegrown talent is significant. Bichette is entering his seventh season with the Blue Jays, and he looks ready to win.
Additionally, Bichette has been an All-Star twice in his career. But his growth potential is another reason why he deserves an extension. Bichette can develop his skills, and an extension would provide the Blue Jays with stability offensively. His desire to remain in Toronto to contribute to a winning team also speaks volumes. To part ways with a talent who has been with the team since being in 2016 would be challenging. If Bichette, who can hit for both contact and power, remains healthy this season, he will continue to be a lethal asset for the Blue Jays.
Photo Credit: © Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
