The New York Mets made a major move during MLB free agency to sign former Toronto Blue Jays star shortstop Bo Bichette to a lucrative three-year, $126 million contract.
Following the move to sign Bichette, it was announced that he would be switching positions for the upcoming 2026 MLB season. Bichette will be playing third base for the Mets.
Making a position change at this point in a career can be a difficult challenge. With that being said, New York’s new third baseman has spoken out with honesty about playing third base.
Bo Bichette Gets Honest About Making Position Change With Mets
As shared by Dan Martin of the New York Post, Bichette has admitted that the switch has been difficult. But, he remains confident in his ability to find success.
“Third base is a challenge, for sure,’’ Bichette said. “I’m learning something new, but I have a good understanding of the growing pains, but I also understand I have the ability to play the position.”
Those words should instill confidence with the Mets. Bichette is a great addition at the plate, but his defense has always been the drawback in his game. Perhaps changing to third base could help him improve on that side of the field.
One National League scout spoke out about Bichette and shared a promising outlook for the New York third baseman.
“His arm has never been the best part of his game, but I think he’ll get there and he has made the plays I’ve seen,’’ the scout said.
What Should the Mets Be Expecting from Bo Bichette This Season?
Last season with the Blue Jays, Bichette put together solid numbers at the plate. He hit 18 home runs to go along with 94 RBI, while also producing a slash line of .311/.357/.483. Those numbers would fit nicely into the Mets’ lineup.
Early projections for the 2026 season from RotoWire have predicted a drop off from Bichette this season.
In their projections, the third baseman would hit 15 home runs, drive in 74 RBI, and record a batting average of .277. New York will hope that Bichette makes those projections look bad by the end of his first season with the team.
Only time will tell how Bichette is able to impact the Mets and how the position change to third base goes for him. He is finding some struggles with the switch, but is clearly confident in his ability to make things work in New York.
Hopefully, he’ll be able to live up to the sizable investment that the Mets made in him during free agency.
Mets’ Bo Bichette Gets Honest About Difficult Career Change