New York Mets infielder Bo Bichette has reached out to franchise legend David Wright for advice as he prepares to step into his new role as the team’s third baseman.
During the offseason, the Mets showed strong confidence in Bichette by signing him to a three-year, $126 million deal. The move reflects their belief in two things: that Bichette can successfully shift from shortstop—where he spent the first seven seasons of his career to third base, and that he can handle the intense spotlight of playing in New York while continuing to deliver strong offensive production.
For the 28-year-old, the transition presents a unique challenge, though it’s not unprecedented. Fortunately for Bichette, one of the best mentors for such a situation is around this spring at Mets camp: former third baseman David Wright, a two-time Gold Glove winner and seven-time All-Star.
Wright told reporters in Port St. Lucie that Bichette contacted him on his own to ask if they could talk before the season begins. The former Mets captain said he expects the two to spend some time together soon, though he isn’t sure exactly what topics Bichette wants to discuss.
Wright’s experience could be invaluable. He spent his entire 14-year career with the Mets and was named the franchise’s fourth captain in 2013. Beyond leadership insight, his defensive expertise at third base could also help Bichette adjust to the position after posting below-average defensive numbers at shortstop.
Bichette’s initiative to seek advice highlights his maturity and commitment to improving. Earlier in the offseason, he also consulted accomplished third basemen Matt Chapman, a five-time Gold Glove winner, and Nolan Arenado, who has earned ten Gold Gloves, about making the positional switch.
Bichette said conversations with elite players at the position have helped him learn what works for them and consider how those insights might apply to his own game.
Whether the transition ultimately pays off remains to be seen, as adjusting to a new position while playing in the demanding New York market is no small task. Still, Bichette appears to be taking the right steps mentally. If he can provide solid defense at third base while continuing to produce offensively potentially surpassing 180 hits in a season the Mets will likely be satisfied with their high-profile free-agent addition.
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