The New York Mets made a notable addition this offseason by signing Bo Bichette, formerly of the Toronto Blue Jays, as they seek to rebound after missing the playoffs last year. In a surprising development, the Mets announced Bichette would primarily play third base rather than his usual shortstop position, setting the stage for fresh expectations in the 2026 season.
Comparison to Alex Rodriguez’s Position Change
Joel Sherman of the New York Post drew a parallel between Bichette’s position switch and the move made by New York Yankees legend Alex Rodriguez. Sherman explained that in Rodriguez’s case, Derek Jeter was firmly established as shortstop due to his championship success, which meant Rodriguez had to adjust.
In his case, Jeter played shortstop, it was understood. He was a four-time champion… he wasn’t going to move Alex Rodriguez,
Sherman said, according to New York Post Sports on X.
…The same is true here with Francisco Lindor, who’s kind of on a Hall of Fame arc as well. Maybe not quite as obvious as Jeter’s was… and Bichette said ‘yeah, it’s easier to do it if you know you’re doing it for a star.’
Bichette’s Attitude Toward the Change
Bichette has approached the transition with a team-first mindset, reflecting on past experiences where his ego took a backseat. Sherman shared a quote highlighting Bichette’s humility during a critical moment in his career.
He said ‘all the ego went out the window when I played second base in the World Series,’
Sherman reported.
Injury Concerns and Team Outlook Ahead of 2026 Season
Francisco Lindor, who remains a key player for the Mets, recently underwent surgery for a hand injury, which leaves his opening day status uncertain. Meanwhile, Bichette appears ready to adapt to his new role at third base as the Mets prepare to kick off their season in late March.
Last season, Bichette and the Blue Jays nearly captured the World Series title but ultimately lost in a seven-game series to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Now with the Mets, Bichette’s position change is being viewed as a strategic move to balance the team’s strengths while demonstrating flexibility similar to past baseball greats.
.@Joelsherman1 compares Bo Bichette’s transition from shortstop to A-Rod’s
Full video ➡️ https://t.co/frhJKE3Fxh pic.twitter.com/rNIGznwpWt
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) February 18, 2026
