Bo Bichette Development Emerges Amid MLB Free Agency

Following the season, Bichette’s contract expired, and he officially entered free agency after declining Toronto’s qualifying offer. It marks the first time in his career he will test the open market, creating uncertainty around his long-term future. The Blue Jays are expected to make a push to retain him, but Bichette is also evaluating external interest from teams seeking a proven middle-of-the-order bat coming off a strong rebound year.

As he weighs his next destination, a notable international development emerged on Wednesday.

According to baseball reporter Francys Romero, Bichette has been listed on Brazil’s preliminary roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. His participation will ultimately depend on the contract he signs and the approvals that follow, but Romero added that playing for Brazil – alongside his brother Dante – is a long-held family goal.

The 2026 WBC is already generating considerable anticipation, and Bichette’s potential inclusion only adds to the intrigue, given the global spotlight the tournament provides.

For MLB clubs, the WBC factor becomes another consideration in negotiations, as teams will need to account for schedule demands, offseason workload, and organizational preferences regarding international play. The Blue Jays remain among the frontrunners to re-sign him due to his established role and familiarity, though other teams are poised to make competitive offers.

Bichette has publicly expressed a desire to remain in Toronto, but free agency dynamics – combined with his international ambitions – could bring another interesting twist as he enters the next chapter off his professional career.