/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn-tor.buminteractif.com%2F2026%2F01%2F17173325%2FBichette-1-1024x576-1-1.jpg)
For some years now, we've suspected that Bo Bichette's future wasn't necessarily in Toronto. We didn't know exactly why (although we understand that the artificial surface of the Rogers Centre didn't help), but we did know that it was possible that he would return to play in the United States.
And now it's done: Bichette has reached an agreement with the Mets (not the Phillies) for the next stage of his career.
That said, it's safe to say that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is not the reason for Bo Bichette's departure. The two have played together for years (in the minors and majors) and are good friends.
The Blue Jays managed to find common ground with the Dominican, but not with the American, in the end.
Inevitably, we thought, this must hurt Vladdy's feelings, given how important Bichette the ballplayer and Bichette the man were to the first baseman.
And Hazel Mae confirms that yes, Vladdy is sad. She contacted him following the news of Bichette's contract in the Big Apple.
“I wish him the best. We won't be teammates anymore, but our friendship will last forever.” (2/2)
– Hazel Mae (@thehazelmae) January 16, 2026
He's sad, but he understands that baseball is a business. So he says he's happy for his friend that he's managed to find a place that's good for him and his family.
Bichette, it should be remembered, only recently got married.
Junior added that he wished Bichette every success in her new challenge. He also said that although they are no longer teammates, their friendship will last forever.
I can't wait to see what the two guys will be doing in 2026, anyway…
For years, the main question facing the Blue Jays surrounded the futures of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
Now, one's staying, one's going and everything will feel much different(@ShiDavidi) https://t.co/AyebFWp0V7
– Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 16, 2026
It's also worth noting that, from a sentimental point of view, it will be difficult for Blue Jays fans to accept the fact that Bichette has chosen to leave and sign for a big price in New York.
He'd long been well-liked in Canada in general, that Bichette.
– Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 16, 2026
This content was created with the help of AI.
