Mets decide what position Bo Bichette will play: Report

The New York Mets reportedly agreed to a three-year, $126 million deal with Bo Bichette, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon.

The reported agreement comes less than a full day after the Mets lost the Kyle Tucker sweepstakes. Bichette, a shortstop, will need a new position for the Mets. He played second base in the World Series, but the Mets have Marcus Semien there after acquiring him earlier this offseason. According to Sammon, Bichette will play third base.

“Bichette, a two-time All-Star at shortstop, is expected to play third base for the Mets, a league source said,” Sammon wrote on Friday. “Brett Baty could see more action at left field.”

Bichette has never played third base in the big leagues or the minor leagues. He played second base for the first time in the big league in last year’s Fall Classic. How his defense translates to third base will be something to watch this season.

As a shortstop, he posted a minus-13 outs above average last season. At second base in the World Series, he had a zero outs above average.

The Mets now figure to have Mark Vientos see time at first base with Jorge Polanco. Baty will attempt to fill the void left in the outfield by the departure of Brandon Nimmo. Baty has just one appearance in the outfield in the big leagues, but made 29 appearances there in his minor league career.

He lacks experience in the outfield, but the Mets will need him to step up. Outside of Juan Soto, they do not have any proven or reliable outfielders. Baty playing left field may also be his best path to a regular spot in the lineup.

He had his best offensive season last year, slashing .254/.313/.435 with 18 home runs. His move to left field also creates a path to getting him and Vientos regular playing time. The Mets are hoping Vientos can bounce back after a season that failed to meet high expectations after a stellar 2024.

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