As the 2024 season progresses, the Toronto Blue Jays must decide whether to extend Bo Bichette’s contract or consider trading him before the deadline, especially since he will hit free agency if no extension is reached. With the Blue Jays lacking a robust farm system, letting Bichette leave without compensation could severely impact their future, making a trade at the deadline a practical option.
Facing this dilemma, the team risks losing Bichette at the end of the season without any return, which many believe the Blue Jays cannot afford. This situation is intensified by the fact that a trade package, even if not highly valuable, would be preferable to losing Bichette for nothing.
Proposed Trade Scenario Involving the Atlanta Braves
One notable trade suggestion proposed by FanSided’s Chase Owens involves sending Bichette to the Atlanta Braves, who could fill a gap at shortstop. The Braves currently rely on Nick Allen, known for his defensive skills but limited offensive production. Adding Bichette could bolster Atlanta’s lineup and provide much-needed scoring power if the Blue Jays fall out of playoff contention.
Owens highlighted the potential benefits of such a move:
Bichette would be a rental, so the cost wouldn’t be drastic (theoretically) and his bounce back 2025 has proven Bichette’s still a very good hitter. Should the Braves offense continue to ride this rollercoaster during the summer months, a surprise move for Bichette could come to fruition,
—Chase Owens, FanSided
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays have enjoyed a long-standing duo in Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who have been central to the team’s identity. Despite the team’s challenges, neither player has been blamed for underperformance.
Still, trading Bichette would mark a significant change given his long tenure alongside Guerrero Jr., a partnership the Blue Jays’ management appears eager to maintain. General Manager Ross Atkins has expressed a clear intention to keep both players together for the foreseeable future.
…It’s also our vision for [Guerrero and Bichette] to continue to play together. We will do everything in our power to see if we can line up.
—Ross Atkins, Toronto Blue Jays General Manager
Will the Blue Jays Pursue Trades or Reinforcements at the Deadline?
Despite the trade talks, the Blue Jays’ stance on whether they will buy or sell players at the deadline remains uncertain. They have experienced fluctuations in performance, including a recent 4-6 record over ten games and a sweep by the Tampa Bay Rays, which diminished momentum gained from sweeping the San Diego Padres just prior.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic believes the Blue Jays are unlikely to enter a selling phase unless they clearly fall out of playoff contention.
I don’t see them selling unless they absolutely fall out of it,
They didn’t want to ever give up on this season. I don’t expect them to give up on this season unless something goes really wrong.
—Ken Rosenthal, MLB Analyst
Therefore, while trading Bichette is a topic of discussion, the Blue Jays may still opt to keep their core intact, aiming to compete throughout the remainder of the campaign.
Implications of the Trade Deadline Decisions
The potential Bo Bichette trade deadline proposal in 2024 places the Blue Jays at a crossroads. Maintaining their star shortstop alongside Guerrero Jr. supports team continuity and fan engagement, but the risk of losing Bichette for no return pressures management to consider offers seriously. A trade to a playoff contender like the Braves could offer valuable returns and indirectly strengthen teams within the league’s balance of power.
Ultimately, the Blue Jays’ choices in the coming weeks will shape their competitive trajectory and roster composition heading into the offseason. How the team navigates this delicate situation, balancing long-term vision against immediate realities, will be critical for their future success.