For the Toronto Blue Jays, the question around Bo Bichette is simple. Do they want him back, and how realistic are the threats around losing him.
For weeks, Bichette has been linked to the New York Yankees. That rumor made a lot of people nervous in Toronto. Losing a star is bad enough. Losing him to a division rival like the Yankees would be even worse.
But that scenario now looks less likely.
Chris Kirschner of The Athletic has poured cold water on the idea that the Yankees are seriously chasing Bichette. According to him, New York has its eyes set on one player above all others. That player is Cody Bellinger.
Kirschner made it clear that the Yankees are not likely to pursue both players. If Bellinger is their top priority, there is little room or need for Bichette. In his view, Bichette would only become an option if Bellinger signs somewhere else. And that is not what he expects to happen.
Kirschner also believes the Yankees and Bellinger will eventually work out a new deal. That alone pushes Bichette further down the list.
Yes, the Yankees have checked in on Bichette. But that does not mean much. General managers check in on nearly every available player. It is part of doing their job. A check-in is not the same as real interest.
For Toronto, this matters. Losing Bichette would hurt. But losing him to the Yankees would be a nightmare outcome. Right now, that worst-case scenario seems to be fading.
Nothing is ever guaranteed in baseball. Things can change fast. But based on what is known today, the Yankees do not appear to be a serious threat.
That gives the Blue Jays a little breathing room as they decide what they want to do next with Bo Bichette.
