Blue Jays' Bo Bichette on contract extension negotiations: 'Right now, we're not talking'

According to Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith, the Toronto Blue Jays and shortstop Bo Bichette are not currently discussing a contract extension for the 24-year-old star. 

"We've had conversations. I think right now we're focused on the season and accomplishing what we think we're capable of," Bichette said. "Right now, we're not talking."

Last season, Bichette made his first-career All-Star team and led the league in hits (191), adding 29 HR and 102, with a batting average of .298. In three seasons with the Blue Jays, Bichette has 289 hits, 45 home runs and 146 RBI with a .301 career batting average. 

Off the heels of Fernando Tatis Jr.'s historic deal with the San Diego Padres last year, Bichette spoke about his future with the Blue Jays and if an extension was possible. Bichette said last February that he was open to an extension with Toronto, but an offer from the Blue Jays had yet to be made. 

"I'm happy for Fernando," Bichette told Sportsnet. "I've always admired the way he plays from the minor leagues until now. He's an exciting player. I think it's really powerful that an organization believed in him enough to put the commitment they did. Obviously, he's probably still not going to get paid what he should have, but I think it's good for Fernando and I think it's good for the Padres. It's good for baseball." 

Bichette is signed for one year and $723,550 for the 2022 season, and he hits arbitration eligibility in 2023. Without an extension, Bichette can hit free agency in 2026.