...
By Aaliyan Mohammed
Contributing Sports Writer
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The Toronto Blue Jays have been one of the busiest teams this offseason. They have signed Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce and Tyler Rogers. On Sunday, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan, they signed Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto.
Okamoto has experience playing first base, third base and in the outfield. According to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon, the Blue Jays plan to use him as a utility player, and according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, they remain engaged in talks with Bo Bichette. However, Okamoto's addition to the team does make Bichette less of a necessity.
The Blue Jays reportedly committed four years and $60 million to Okamoto. That's less money they have to sign Bichette. They are also reportedly pursuing Kyle Tucker, who may end up getting the biggest deal of any player this offseason. Signing Okamoto seemingly increases the chances that Bichette walks, and many contenders would benefit from adding him.
Read More on MLB
...
Prediction: Bichette leaves Toronto to join the Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies are reportedly looking to shake things up and have already made one major move this offseason by signing Kyle Schwarber. They do not need a shortstop, but many experts believe Bichette's future is not at shortstop, given his poor defense. A move to second base or third base could be in the cards.
Alec Bohm will be a free agent after next season and he has been involved in trade rumors since before last season. The Phillies could sign Bichette and trade Bohm. Bichette or Bryson Stott could then change positions to play third base, with the other playing second base.
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Phillies are a team that's interested in Bichette. Bichette is one of the best hitters in baseball and would be a great addition to their lineup.
More MLB: Latest Yankees-Freddy Peralta Trade Update Suggests Talks Still Warm
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines