As the Major League Baseball free agency period draws near, the Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as a prominent potential destination for Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette. Industry insiders suggest the Dodgers are prepared to play a waiting game, allowing the market to establish itself before making a decisive move.
Dodgers' Contract Strategy and Bichette's Market Value
The Dodgers' reported plan is straightforward. They are likely to propose a contract that is shorter in term but offers a higher annual salary. This approach aligns with their historical preference for maintaining long-term payroll flexibility. Most projections estimate Bichette's value on the open market at seven to eight years for a sum between $200 and $210 million, averaging roughly $26 million per season.
However, Los Angeles is more inclined toward a four or five-year agreement with a elevated yearly payout. One speculated framework circulating is an eight-year, $200 million deal that includes a player opt-out after the fourth year and front-loaded financial terms. The lack of significant trade chatter indicates this is primarily a free-agency scenario.
What Bichette Brings to the Table
For the Dodgers, acquiring the 27-year-old Bichette would inject a potent right-handed bat into a lineup already featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman. His consistent ability to hit for a high average and drive in runs would significantly bolster the middle of their batting order during their perennial championship pursuits.
Born on March 5, 1998, Bichette has compiled an impressive career slash line of .294/.342/.462 with 111 home runs over 748 games. His 2025 season was particularly strong, where he batted .311, ranking second in the American League for batting average. A two-time All-Star, his primary area for improvement remains his defense at shortstop, where metrics have consistently been negative. A willingness to shift to second base could mitigate this concern, especially with Mookie Betts expected to remain at shortstop for the Dodgers in 2026.
Implications for Both Sides
A move to Los Angeles would offer Bichette a transition from a Blue Jays team in a state of flux to a franchise that is a consistent World Series contender. He would gain the opportunity to hit in a protected lineup and compete deep into the postseason regularly.
For the Toronto Blue Jays, the chances of retaining their homegrown star appear to be diminishing. If Bichette departs after rejecting a qualifying offer, the team would receive draft pick compensation and free up substantial financial resources to potentially redirect toward rebuilding or focusing on younger talent.
The Dodgers, with their significant payroll flexibility, clear strategic vision, and a roster constructed to win immediately, present a serious threat to secure Bichette's services should he officially reach free agency without an extension in place.
