Blue Jays Extend Qualifying Offer to Bo Bichette
The Toronto Blue Jays made a strategic move by extending a one-year qualifying offer to free agent Bo Bichette. This ensures the team will receive a compensatory draft pick if Bichette signs with another team.
Qualifying Offer Details
For the 2026 season, the qualifying offer stands at $22.05 million. Bichette has 18 days to accept the offer and play under that contract. If he declines, he will enter unrestricted free agency for the first time.
Additional Roster Moves
- Injured right-handers Angel Bastardo, Bowden Francis, Yimi García, Nick Sandlin, and Robinson Piña were reinstated from the 60-day injured list.
- Robinson Piña was outright assigned to Triple-A.
- Catcher Brandon Valenzuela was added to the major-league roster, protecting him from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft.
- Valenzuela was acquired from the San Diego Padres in exchange for Will Wagner at the trade deadline.
- Right-handed relievers Ryan Burr and Dillon Tate cleared waivers and elected free agency.
Bichette's 2025 Performance
At 27 years old, Bichette had an outstanding season, batting .311 with 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and a .357 on-base percentage. He suffered a left knee sprain on September 6 during a game against the New York Yankees after sliding into the catcher’s shin guards.
Despite the injury, he returned in time for the World Series, where he hit .348 and launched a pivotal three-run homer early in Game 7, a moment that could become a legend in franchise history.
"He returned in time for the World Series, hitting .348 and launching a three-run home run early in Game 7 that for a while seemed destined for franchise lore."
Author's summary: The Blue Jays secured their position with Bo Bichette by extending a qualifying offer, safeguarding against losing him without compensation while preparing their roster for the offseason.