The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move in free agency by signing corner infielder Kazuma Okamoto to a four-year, $60 million contract. This addition positions Okamoto as the starting third baseman, enhancing an already formidable lineup that includes first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and outfielders Anthony Santander and George Springer. The impact of this signing is expected to ripple throughout the roster, particularly affecting the roles of current infielders.
Okamoto’s arrival means that infielders Ernie Clement and Addison Barger, who have served primarily as third basemen over the past two seasons, will likely transition into utility roles. Clement brings valuable experience at second base, making him a candidate for that position as the Blue Jays look to bolster their infield depth.
While the addition of Okamoto is a significant boost, a key question remains regarding the future of Bo Bichette. Currently a free agent, Bichette played a pivotal role in the Blue Jays’ successful campaign in 2025, boasting an impressive batting line of .311/.357/.483 across 628 plate appearances, including 18 home runs and 44 doubles. His desire to return to Toronto is clear, with reports indicating he wishes to finish his career alongside Guerrero.
Team broadcaster Buck Martinez estimated the chances of Bichette rejoining the Blue Jays at 80%. The organization has expressed a strong interest in bringing him back for the 2026 season and beyond. Bichette’s flexibility may also play a role in negotiations, as he is open to moving from shortstop to second base. Although he has limited professional experience at second, having last played there in 2019, his performance during the World Series may have accelerated this potential transition.
As the Blue Jays evaluate their infield strategy, Bichette’s potential move could align well with the team’s needs. The presence of Andres Gimenez as a superior defensive option at shortstop, coupled with Clement and Barger shifting to utility roles, would create a more balanced lineup. This adjustment would not only enhance the starting roster but also deepen the bench, providing the Blue Jays with greater flexibility throughout the season.
The signing of Okamoto certainly strengthens the Blue Jays’ ambitions, but the inclusion of Bichette in the lineup remains a priority for the franchise. As negotiations unfold, both the team and its fans will be watching closely to see if the talented infielder can secure his place in Toronto for years to come.
