Combined with $765 million man Juan Soto and perpetual All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor, Bichette both lengthens and diversifies New York's lineup. Bichette banged out 181 hits in 139 games in 2025, and twice led the AL in hits, in 2021 (191) and 2022 (189).

The Cubs have a projected cash payroll of just over $176 million for the 2026 season prior to signing Bregman, per Spotrac. That was projected to rank 11th among all MLB clubs next season, according to Spotrac. The Cubs were also projected to have $35.2 million in projected tax space next season prior to Bregman's signing, per Spotrac.

The team pursued free-agent infielder Bo Bichette, attempting to make a big splash for an external free agent for the first time since December 2022. But Bichette on Jan. 16 agreed to a three-year, $126 million deal with the New York Mets.

Less than 24 hours after Tucker agreed to a deal with the two-time defending World Series champions, the Mets shifted to Plan B by agreeing with All-Star Bo Bichette to a three-year, $126 million deal. The Athletic's Will Sammon was the first to report the agreement.

Former MLB general manager Jim Duquette gives a blunt take on the New York Mets signing free-agent infielder Bo Bichette.