After the Toronto Blue Jays' narrow seven-game loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, a significant offseason awaits the team. A noteworthy development already took place when pitcher Shane Bieber chose to exercise his $16 million option for the next season, ensuring he remains part of the Blue Jays.
Bieber, acquired before the trade deadline from the Cleveland Guardians, surprised many with this decision, securing a strong starting pitcher spot in Toronto's 2026 rotation.
The team faces several important choices regarding its core players, including star shortstop Bo Bichette. After suffering an injury in early September, Bichette was sidelined until the World Series. Despite not being fully healed upon his return, he fought through to contribute on baseball's biggest stage.
“He made his intentions clear after the World Series that he wants to remain with Toronto.”
Bichette is expected to sign a lucrative new contract. According to Mike Axisa of CBS Sports, this deal could come with a position change for the upcoming season. Axisa predicts Bichette will return to the Blue Jays on an eight-year, $250 million contract.
“In what wouldn't be such a bold prediction, Axisa has Bichette returning to Toronto next season on an eight-year, $250 million contract.”
With Bieber locked in and Bichette likely to secure a long-term, high-value contract potentially involving a position switch, the Blue Jays are positioning themselves for a strategic future.
Author's summary: The Blue Jays aim to build on recent success by securing Shane Bieber and potentially redefining Bo Bichette’s role with a major long-term contract.