Mets Sign Bo Bichette After Missing Kyle Tucker to Dodgers

The New York Mets agreed to a three-year, $126 million contract with infielder Bo Bichette on Friday, less than a day after the Los Angeles Dodgers signed outfielder Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240 million deal. This shift came as the Mets looked to rebuild their lineup following losses of key players, while the Dodgers added to their recent World Series success. The moves happened during the MLB offseason, with teams across the league chasing top free agents.

Background

Bo Bichette spent his career with the Toronto Blue Jays until this offseason. In 2025, he hit .311 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs, leading the American League in hits with 181 despite missing time due to a knee injury in September. He returned for the World Series, where Toronto fell short, and hit a 442-foot home run in Game 7. The Blue Jays won the AL East that year after a last-place finish in 2024.

The Mets entered the offseason needing hitters and outfield help. They lost first baseman Pete Alonso to free agency and traded outfielder Brandon Nimmo and infielder Jeff McNeil. Earlier signings like Jorge Polanco, Devin Williams, and Luke Weaver did not fully replace those losses. Owner Steve Cohen and president of baseball operations David Stearns pushed for big additions to compete in the National League.

Kyle Tucker, the top free agent, drew bids from several teams. The Mets offered around $50 million a year but lost out when Tucker chose the Dodgers. Los Angeles, fresh off back-to-back World Series titles, filled needs in left field and the bullpen. Tucker's deal includes $30 million deferred, making its present-day value a record $57.1 million per year.

Toronto had interest in Tucker to fit their contact-hitting lineup but missed him too. Bichette turned down a qualifying offer from the Jays, sparking talks with other teams like the Phillies and Red Sox.

Key Details

The Contracts

Bichette's deal with the Mets averages $42 million per year. He will play shortstop, bringing his low strikeout rate of 14.5% and ability to hit to all fields. His two-strike approach often fouls off pitches and works deep counts.

Tucker's four-year pact with the Dodgers costs them $119.9 million annually against the luxury tax due to penalties. He provides outfield defense and power, addressing Los Angeles' weaknesses from 2025, when their bullpen blew 25 saves.

Team Adjustments

For the Mets, Bichette fills an infield spot but leaves outfield needs open. They have only four outfielders on their 40-man roster. Cody Bellinger remains a possible target, as his bat-to-ball skills and left-field defense match New York's gaps.

The Blue Jays signed Kazuma Okamoto recently. If Bichette leaves, they plan to shift Andrés Giménez to shortstop, use Okamoto and Addison Barger at third, and Ernie Clement at second. Bichette worried about the wear of artificial turf at Rogers Centre but stayed close with teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

The Phillies held a Zoom call with Bichette last week but missed out. The Red Sox, who targeted him, now look at Bellinger and Eugenio Suárez after signing Ranger Suárez.

"The Mets needed an impact bat after losing out on Tucker, and Bichette was the next best option available." – MLB insider close to the negotiations

What This Means

These deals reshape the free-agent market. With Tucker and Bichette off the board, Bellinger stands as the top position player left. The Mets may pursue him to cover outfield and add lineup depth. Toronto avoids a big contract while filling infield roles internally, preserving flexibility for Guerrero Jr.'s future.

Los Angeles strengthens its roster further, outbidding rivals like the Mets twice this offseason—first for reliever Edwin Díaz, now Tucker. Their payroll pushes luxury tax limits, but they aim to defend titles.

Other teams adjust. The Yankees, Phillies, Red Sox, and Blue Jays missed on these stars and now eye trades or remaining free agents. The Mets' quick pivot shows their willingness to spend, signaling more moves ahead. Boston plans to trade starting pitchers for hitters. Philadelphia lurks for infield help.

Bichette joins a Mets team eyeing playoffs after recent changes. His 2025 bounce-back proves his value, and playing in New York offers a new stage. Tucker fits seamlessly with the Dodgers' contenders, where he avoids carrying a franchise.

The offseason continues with top pitchers like Tarik Skubal, Freddy Peralta, and Framber Valdez available via trade. Free-agent lists shrink, pushing clubs toward deals. These signings set up rivalries, especially Mets-Dodgers in the NL.