Ketel Marte rumored to be Toronto's backup plan for Bo Bichette originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 of the World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays front office got to work in the offseason. They've made the biggest free agent signing thus far, securing the signature of Dylan Cease on a seven-year $210 million contract.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat said, after signing Cease to such a massive deal, the Blue Jays may not be able to offer Bo Bichette as much money as they'd like to. Right next to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bichette has been one of the most integral parts of the Blue Jays franchise for many years.
He debuted in 2019 and since then has made two All-Star appearances and led the league in hits twice. His best year came in 2021, where he 5.9 WAR, 191 hits, 29 home runs 102 RBIs and 25 stolen bases, all career-highs.
With Bichette gone, the Jays would still have a solid group of infielders, with Guerrero Jr., Andres Gimenez, Ernie Clement and Addison Barger. With that said, there may still be a desire to bring in another piece.
According to Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report, the Blue Jays should pivot to a Ketel Marte trade if unable to bring back Bichette. Both players have very similar strengths, being infielders that rack up hits while hitting for a high average.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith the Diamondbacks rumored to be shopping Marte, he could be viable option to target.
However, all signs point to Toronto doing everything in their power to retain Bichette and keep a roster that mirrors the one that took them to the World Series last year.
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