Bo Bichette’s return to Toronto was always going to be emotional. The New York Mets infielder spent seven seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays after being drafted by the franchise in 2016, rising through the farm system alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The pair debuted in 2019, became franchise cornerstones, helped Toronto reach four postseasons and played key roles in the club’s run to the 2025 World Series before Bichette departed in free agency this past winter.
As Bichette prepares to go against the Blue Jays for the first time in his MLB career, the 28-year-old was asked about his relationship with Guerrero ahead of the game.
“I’ve seen him at his lowest, he’s seen me at mine. Vice versa, too, at our highest,” Bichette said fighting back tears.
Per MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson, Bichette was unable to finish his next sentence as emotion got the better of him.
When Bichette signed a three-year deal with the Mets in January, Guerrero admitted he was saddened by the departure, saying their friendship would “last forever” despite no longer being teammates.
Bichette leaves behind one of the most productive stretches by a shortstop in franchise history. A two-time All-Star, he recorded three 180-hit seasons (and 175 hits in 135 games in 2023) and helped lead Toronto back into contention. His final season with the Blue Jays was especially memorable, as he hit .311 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs before producing several defining postseason moments during the club’s first World Series appearance since 1993.
© Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Monday’s return to Rogers Centre is expected to feature a standing ovation and a pregame tribute, although Blue Jays manager John Schneider joked that Bichette would do everything possible to hide his emotions once the game began.
“Oh, I’m sure he’ll hate it,” Schneider said. “I think he’ll tip his helmet. But I’m sure you won’t get a smile… I’m sure he’ll be locked in to hit” (h/t Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet).
The Blue Jays enter Monday’s matchup hoping to end a six-game skid. First pitch is scheduled for 7:07 pm ET.
