The Toronto Blue Jays shook up their roster Saturday by signing Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto, and the move’s putting a spotlight on what happens next with Bo Bichette.
After seven seasons in Toronto, the two-time All-Star shortstop might be heading for the exit. Okamoto brings serious power from his NPB days, and he’s essentially being brought in to provide the same offensive punch that Bichette has delivered.
That’s where the Philadelphia Phillies come in.
Phillies writer Alex Coll reported that Bichette’s market now includes Philadelphia, and the connection makes sense on multiple levels. Pairing him with Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper could give the Phillies the offensive depth they’re looking for.
There’s already a relationship in place too. Bichette’s said to have a strong connection with Phillies bench coach Don Mattingly. While that might not be the deciding factor, it doesn’t hurt when you’re trying to land a player of Bichette’s caliber.
The numbers back up why Philadelphia’s interested. Bichette hit .311 last season, tied for second-best in the league. He’s the only player who hit at least .300 against fastballs, breaking balls, and changeups – meaning no matter what pitchers throw at him, he’s putting the ball in play and giving his team a chance.
It would take some pieces falling into place, but if the Phillies can pull this off after missing out on other major free agents, it instantly boosts their World Series chances. Every team’s chasing the reigning champions right now, and adding Bichette’s consistent production could be exactly what pushes Philadelphia over the top.
The way I see it, this signing would be huge for a Phillies team that’s been knocking on the door. They’ve got the core pieces – now it’s about adding the right complementary players to make it all work.
