How Bieber Opting In Could Help the Jays Retain Bichette

The offseason started off with some positive news for the Toronto Blue Jays. Shane Bieber’s decision to exercise his $16 million player option for 2026, foregoing his $4 million opt-out (and potentially a larger and longer-term deal), was a surprise for many and might open the door for Bo Bichette’s return.

While Bieber’s move is a win, it may also have deeper implications. Particularly for Bichette, the star shortstop, and sure to be one of the most sought-after free agents this winter. Bieber’s commitment to Toronto could be a key domino in convincing Bichette to stay.

Whether Bieber’s decision was related to stability, his connections in the clubhouse and front office, or his belief in the franchise making another run next year and finishing what they started, the result is that a key piece of the starting rotation is now in place.

Next year’s starting rotation is lined up to include Kevin Gausman (in the final year of his contract), José Berríos (still recuperating from an injury, but with two more seasons left on his seven-year deal), Trey Yesavage (under club control and entering his first full season with the Jays) and Bieber. Eric Lauer and Bowden Francis could also be competing for a spot in the rotation, along with some minor leaguers.

While the Jays will still need to fill out the bullpen, the pitching staff looks formidable. Bieber’s decision means that Toronto gets him at a relative bargain salary for a pitcher of his calibre, providing some flexibility for spending in other areas.

The onus is now on the Jays’ front office and Bichette to find some middle ground in their negotiations. Both sides have expressed interest so far, but when other teams come knocking with cash in hand, that will be the true test.

Bichette has been an important fixture of the Jays’ offence since his debut in 2019. While the team prioritized extending Vladimir Guerrero Jr. last offseason and into the regular season, negotiations with Bichette have not seemed to be a priority. Now, re-signing him (or finding a worthy replacement either at shortstop or second) is widely considered the organization’s top focus.

Rumours have it that the Yankees, Tigers and Braves are all interested in Bichette. Each has a glaring deficiency at short and would dearly love to fill it with the two-time All-Star.

Bichette’s willingness to be flexible when it came to his role in the World Series might not be the full story. His knee injury was obvious throughout the series, so his only real option in the field was second. There has long been talk of his desire to remain a shortstop, and once he's healthy, I'm not sure that will change.

Does the Bieber opt-in, Bichette’s relationship with the Blue Jays organization, and his desire to win a championship with Vladdy and the current roster mean enough for him to potentially forego millions?

The Jays have money, but as I discussed in a previous article, they must be diligent when it comes to spending. Locking up Guerrero was crucial in demonstrating that Toronto is a destination, not an afterthought. However, his salary will hamper the franchise as it navigates the luxury tax brackets in the years to come.

The Athletic's Tim Britton recently predicted that Bichette is going to get a contract of eight years at $212 million. That would come out to roughly $27 million per season. If you factor in Guerrero’s $35.7 million AAV, that is more than $60 million between them. The 2025 payroll for the Jays was about $250 million, and slightly higher for luxury tax purposes.

Are sentimentality and familiarity enough for Bichette and the Jays to find some common ground? And should the Jays make more than a passing attempt at re-signing Bichette?

He is an exceptional hitter, and even on one leg, he was nearly a difference maker for the Jays in the World Series. Despite the Jays dropping the series, his Game 7 home run will be talked about for years to come.

However, his fielding has never been better than average for a shortstop, and his OAA (Outs Above Average) has placed him below the league average in recent years.

He has also been plagued with late-season injuries the past few years. The injuries have primarily been lower body related, including this season’s knee injury and last season’s calf injury. Those injuries often come with age. He hasn’t played more than 150 games in a season since 2022.

By securing Bieber early, the Jays have created some momentum and goodwill not just with the fan base but with other players who have hit the free agent market. It also signals to other free agents, like Bichette, that the Jays are still focused on fielding a competitive team next season.

Athletes don’t make decisions in isolation. They consider the culture of the clubhouse, the competitiveness of the roster and the vision of the front office. Bieber’s opt-in offers several cues that could influence Bichette’s decision-making process.

It signals stability. Bieber’s choice to stay suggests that the clubhouse environment is strong and that the organization is aligned in its goals. For Bichette, who has spent his entire career in Toronto, that sense of continuity could be compelling.

It reflects competitive intent instead of a passive approach. Bichette, who has expressed a desire to win, may see Bieber’s decision as the Jays reloading for another run at the title.

And players talk. Bieber’s decision may reflect internal conversations about the team’s future. If Bichette sees Bieber betting on Toronto, he may be more inclined to do the same.

Bieber’s decision to opt in with the Jays is more than a roster move; it’s a strategic signal to the team and the rest of the MLB. It reflects confidence in the organization, reinforces the team’s competitive identity, and creates the conditions for Bichette to re-sign.

If Bichette does choose to stay, fans may look back at Bieber’s quiet November decision as the moment that set everything in motion.