Mets' Bo Bichette Adapts to Third Base in Spring Training
Spring training is underway in Port St. Lucie, and Bo Bichette is embracing a significant transition as he adjusts to playing third base for the New York Mets after spending his career at shortstop.
The 27-year-old infielder, who signed a three-year, $126 million contract with the Mets during the offseason, arrived early to camp to work with manager Carlos Mendoza on mastering his new position.
Learning the Fundamentals
"I'm meeting a lot of new people and trying to figure out a new routine," Bichette explained. "But it's honestly really exciting. It almost feels like my first season again."
The biggest adjustment involves understanding timing differences between the positions. Mendoza emphasized that at third base, Bichette has more time to make throws to first base compared to shortstop, where the ball arrives much faster.
"Part of the transition, even when he's just taking regular ground balls, is realizing how much time he has compared to the shortstop position," Mendoza noted. "The ball is going to get to you a lot quicker, you have got more time."
Different Challenges
However, the position switch isn't without its complexities. When turning double plays, Bichette must work faster to give the second baseman adequate time to complete the play.
"It's more forward-to-back than side-to-side," Bichette observed about his new position. "Shortstop you definitely have to come in, but having more time at third base is something that I am getting used to."
Offensive Expectations
The Mets acquired Bichette primarily for his offensive capabilities. Last season with the Toronto Blue Jays, he posted a .311/.357/.483 slash line with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs, helping the team reach Game 7 of the World Series.
Mendoza is considering batting Bichette third in the lineup, positioned between Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. "There's a ton of really good players on this team, and I think you can line it up any way," Bichette said confidently.
Building Team Chemistry
The rebuilt Mets infield features Jorge Polanco at first base and Marcus Semien at second base. Bichette has been spending considerable time with Polanco, another veteran who reported early to camp.
During Thursday's practice, Bichette faced ace pitcher Freddy Peralta in live batting practice, showcasing the Mets' two biggest offseason acquisitions working together.
"You get that kind of matchup, and OK, it's real now," Mendoza said, expressing his excitement about seeing the team's new pieces in action.
While Bichette hasn't quantified his comfort level at third base yet, he remains optimistic about the transition. "I haven't played any games, so that is going to be my biggest hurdle, but I am excited for it," he concluded.