As the MLB offseason builds toward its annual crescendo, the Atlanta Braves have already made a few notable moves, but if Jon Morosi’s latest prediction proves true, the biggest bombshell may still be on the horizon.
Braves Target Blue Jays Star Amid Shortstop Uncertainty
Thus far, the Braves’ winter has been marked by pitching-focused transactions. Closer Raisel Iglesias returns on a one-year, $16 million pact, and right-hander Robert Suarez joins the bullpen on a robust three-year, $45 million contract. But for a franchise with championship ambitions, the real drama is playing out in the lineup and more specifically, at shortstop.
Enter Bo Bichette, the Toronto Blue Jays’ two-time All-Star, whose future in the north has suddenly grown uncertain. According to the MLB Network, the Braves could become surprise contenders in the race for Bichette. “How about former Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos being the one who signs Bichette to play shortstop in Atlanta?” Morosi speculated.
Toronto’s Pursuit of Kyle Tucker May Tip the Scales
That question isn’t as far-fetched as it might initially sound. Anthopoulos drafted and developed Bichette in Toronto and could now bring the 27-year-old star to Atlanta, assuming the Blue Jays commit big money elsewhere, such as in a rumored pursuit of Astros slugger Kyle Tucker.
The theory goes like this: if Toronto lands Tucker, they’ll likely lack the financial flexibility or the strategic interest to retain Bichette. In that case, the Braves, who are one of the few teams still willing to play Bichette at shortstop rather than shifting him to second or third, emerge as a natural destination.
Bichette Brings Offensive Upside Despite Down Year
Though Bichette’s 2024 season was marred by a concerning .598 OPS, his career .299 average and offensive upside remain enticing. At his peak, Bichette combines elite contact skills with sneaky power and above-average baserunning, a trifecta few shortstops offer. The defensive metrics aren’t elite, but they’re serviceable enough in a Braves lineup loaded with power and production.
For Braves fans, the irony is rich: they may need to cheer for the Blue Jays to win the Kyle Tucker sweepstakes to open the door for Bichette’s exit. If that domino falls, Atlanta could capitalize in a big way.
In a winter where the Braves haven’t made a headline-grabbing splash on offense, landing Bichette would change the conversation entirely and possibly, the balance of power in the National League.
