"Besides Kyle Tucker, whom the Toronto Blue Jays also have a vested interest in, Bo Bichette remains the premier free agent on the market. The shortstop's latest update involved a revelation that he'd be willing to change positions for the right team, which is probably the right call after he "earned" -13 Outs Above Average at short in 2025. While that will surely appeal to teams interested in the two-time All-Star, Bichette's market is more or less defined already. He'll be too expensive for small-market teams to sign, and his various warts (injury history, defensive issues, etc.) will surely keep on-the-fence suitors at bay."
"The Braves are signing Ha-Seong Kim to a one-year, $20 million contract, per @JonHeyman. Kim hit .253 in 24 games with Atlanta after being claimed back in September. Kim posted a 73 wRC+ and ameager defensive metrics in 24 games for the Tampa Bay Rays, who ultimately released him late in the 2025 season. The Braves claimed him off waivers, and while he was better in Atlanta (91 wRC+ while cutting his strikeout rate significantly), he was hardly the player who earned MVP votes with the San Diego Padres in 2023. Nevertheless, at $20 million, the Braves have more or less committed to Kim being their shortstop in 2026. With Ozzie Albies locked in at second base and Austin Riley manning the hot corner, their infield is completely full."
Bo Bichette remains the premier free agent shortstop and indicated willingness to change positions after posting -13 Outs Above Average at short in 2025. His injury history, defensive shortcomings, and expected price tag likely put him out of reach for small-market teams and deter borderline suitors. The Atlanta Braves signing Ha-Seong Kim to a one-year, $20 million deal effectively removes Atlanta from Bichette’s market. Kim had uneven offensive and defensive results with Tampa Bay and improved slightly in Atlanta. With Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley entrenched, Atlanta’s infield is full and Boston appears Toronto’s main competition.
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