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The Blue Jays still haven’t decided on Bo Bichette’s future, even though general manager Ross Atkins has made it clear he plans to try re-signing the star shortstop this offseason. “(Bichette’s) been important. We will be in his market,” Atkins said. Bichette is projected to land a seven-year, $189 million deal ($27 million AAV), according to CBS Sports’ RJ Anderson, and still the list of potential suitors for him keeps growing. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays have also been linked to Kyle Tucker, but there hasn’t been any real movement on that front either. Most people believe Toronto will only pursue Tucker if they can’t bring back Bichette, or the other way around. But MLB insider Bob Nightengale has a much bolder take. He believes there’s actually a way for the Blue Jays to land both Bichette and Tucker, and he’s got an idea for how they could pull it off. “I think there is a world with both, particularly because I think Bichette will ask for an opt-out in his deal,” Blue Jays today quoted Nightengale. Well, Bichette has been one of the main engines of the Blue Jays’ offense for the past seven seasons, so the impact of his leaving would be massive. And why not? A .311 average with 18 HRs and an .840 OPS is no small feat!!! The Jays have already extended a one-year qualifying offer worth $22.025 million for 2026. But Bichette is expected to turn that down in favor of a long-term deal. Still, it’s not a sure thing, especially since Bichette has publicly said he wants to stay in Toronto. “I’ve said I want to be here from the beginning.” Now, that’s where Nightengale’s idea comes into play. He believes the Jays could seal the deal by including a one-year opt-out clause, giving Bichette the chance to reassess his market down the line while still committing to Toronto in the short term. For fans, that would be a win, even if it means keeping him only for another year. This isn’t the first time a franchise has faced a balancing act between retaining a cornerstone player and chasing new talent. For the Blue Jays, Bo Bichette’s future remains the top priority, but his growing list of suitors — including the Red Sox and Braves — keeps the pressure high. Read Top Stories First From EssentiallySports Click here and check box next to EssentiallySports With Bichette’s stellar rebound season and questions surrounding his defense, Toronto might use a one-year opt-out to keep him while pursuing another star like Kyle Tucker. So, if Bichette stays, that locks down the infield. From there, Toronto could turn its attention to the outfield, and that’s where Kyle Tucker comes in. The 4x All-Star would bring a much-needed left-handed bat to the lineup. Considering the Jays’ best lefty OPS from a regular this year was Addison Barger at .755, Tucker would be a huge upgrade. Now imagine a lineup featuring Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Alejandro Kirk, and Tucker all together… That’s a serious amount of firepower capable of giving any opponent a tough night. The Jays are equally active on the other end of the ball While the inclusion of Bichette and Tucker would fortify their offense, the Blue Jays are not stopping there. They are equally active in arming up their pitching side, also. According to Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, the Blue Jays are expected to be in the mix for some big-name free agents this offseason. That includes top-tier starting pitchers like Dylan Cease. Well, Cease’s numbers tell an interesting story. He might not be attractive on ERA grounds. But he ranked in the 95th percentile for whiff rate and 89th percentile for strikeout rate in 2025! That kind of stuff could easily elevate Toronto’s rotation and give them a legitimate shot at returning to the World Series. If you know, the Jays’ projected rotation features Shane Bieber, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, rookie Trey Yesavage, and Eric Lauer. But in the intense AL East, that group still comes with question marks. Why? Because Gausman is turning 35, Bieber is entering his first full season after Tommy John surgery, Berrios ended last season on the IL with elbow inflammation, Yesavage just hit a career-high 139.2 innings, and Lauer only recently had his first healthy season since 2022. So, with all that uncertainty, it’s clear the Blue Jays could use another impact arm. And Cease might be that guy. As rumors continue to swirl, one thing’s for sure… Expect some big moves from Toronto this offseason. And if yes, don’t be surprised if a few unexpected twists are still waiting for us.
