Red Sox Eyeing Bo Bichette as a Backup Plan for Alex Bregman
As the winter unfolds, Boston Red Sox fans remain on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the team’s first significant free-agent signing. With the spotlight on third baseman Alex Bregman, a reunion appears to be the primary objective. However, lurking in the background is another name that could reshape the infield: longtime Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette.
Bichette’s Potential Transition to Boston
Should the Red Sox successfully lure Bichette to Fenway Park, a shift to second base would be a likely adjustment. The team has already had discussions with Bichette via Zoom before the winter meetings, providing them with a front-row seat to his offensive prowess over the past seven seasons. Despite the buzz surrounding his potential move, recent developments suggest the Red Sox have yet to make significant progress on the Bichette front.
Red Sox’s Strategy Unfolds
On Monday, Chris Cotillo from MassLive illuminated the Red Sox’s ongoing pursuit of additional hitting power, especially following the trade of catcher Willson Contreras. While Bichette remains on the team’s radar, sources indicate he is primarily viewed as a secondary option. The focus remains firmly on securing Bregman.
“Speaking to people with the Red Sox, it’s clear that Plan A, at this point in the winter, is locking down a reunion with Alex Bregman, though the sides have yet to line up on a deal to this point,” Cotillo reported. “If Bregman signs elsewhere, a pivot to Bo Bichette, who would play second base, is possible.”
Exploring Other Options
The Red Sox are not limiting their options to Bichette alone. Cotillo noted that potential trades for second basemen Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals or Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks are also being considered. Yet, these alternatives are viewed as fallback options, similar to the potential acquisition of Bichette.
As the conversation around these players evolves, some analysts speculate that Bichette may outshine Bregman in terms of performance over the next six years, aligning with the length of their respective contracts. At just 25 years old, Bichette’s age could work in his favor, potentially drawing a longer commitment than Bregman, who is four years his senior.
The Premium of Acquiring Bichette
However, acquiring Bichette from Toronto may come at a higher price than simply retaining Bregman. The Blue Jays, who are also interested in Bregman, could complicate the landscape for the Red Sox should they choose to pursue Bichette aggressively.
As the winter progresses, the Red Sox find themselves navigating a complex web of possibilities. While Bregman remains the primary target, the allure of adding a dynamic talent like Bo Bichette could reshape the team’s infield if they need to pivot. The coming weeks will be telling as the Red Sox look to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
