Overview
- Bichette has a five-day window after the World Series to decide whether to opt out of his three-year, $126 million Mets contract or stay under the deal for 2027.
- Multiple outlets report insiders, including SNY’s Chelsea Janes, read that Bichette is likely to opt in and remain with the Mets for next season, though no formal announcement has been made.
- The contract pays a $42 million average annual value and includes full no-trade protection plus opt-outs after 2026 and 2027, each with a $5 million bonus; opting out now would forfeit about $84 million in remaining guarantees.
- Bichette’s 2026 numbers declined from his strong 2025 season—he hit .260 with 18 homers and a .702 OPS—reducing the chance he would command similar annual pay on today’s free-agent market.
- If he stays the Mets must account for the $42 million payroll hit while deciding whether to pursue a big corner bat or reposition infield roles, and if he opts out Toronto or other teams could re-enter the pursuit next winter.