Blue Jays Extend Qualifying Offer to Bo Bichette
The Toronto Blue Jays extended a one-year qualifying offer to free agent Bo Bichette on Thursday. This move ensures that if Bichette signs with another team, the Blue Jays will receive a compensatory draft pick.
Details of the Qualifying Offer
For the 2026 season, the qualifying offer value is set at $22.05 million. Bichette now has 18 days to either accept this offer and play under its terms or enter unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career.
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 subsequently assigned outright to Triple-A.
- Catcher Brandon Valenzuela was added to the major-league roster, protecting him from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft in December. 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 chose free agency.
Bo Bichette's 2025 Performance
Bichette, 27, had a strong 2025 season, batting .311 with 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and a .357 on-base percentage. His season was interrupted by a left knee sprain suffered on September 6 during a game against the New York Yankees after sliding into the catcher's shin guards.
"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."
This performance highlighted his value and impact on the team during critical moments.
Summary: The Blue Jays' qualifying offer to Bichette secures draft compensation while bolstering their roster as they head into the off-season, reflecting the player’s strong 2025 impact.