Report: Bo Bichette has concerns about Rogers Centre's playing surface

"The short answer is, they don't necessarily have to respond with an immediate follow-up. This lineup, headlined by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, Alejandro Kirk, Anthony Santander, Addison Barger and newcomer Kazuma Okamoto, is already talented enough to defend the franchise's AL crown next season. Since any further additions would cut into the current group's playing time, the front office must carefully evaluate its next steps."

"Having said that, with a player of Bo Bichette's calibre still available, the Blue Jays may not be finished adding to their position-player group this winter. While other clubs are also involved, notably the Philadelphia Phillies, who reportedly held a video meeting with Bichette's camp on Monday, a pathway to returning to Toronto likely remains open - at least for now."

"The Phillies appear to be the biggest threat to the Blue Jays' ability to retain the two-time All-Star, who's reportedly seeking a long-term deal this winter. On top of that, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand reports the cornerstone infielder has "privately expressed concern" over the physical toll that playing on Rogers Centre's artificial turf has taken on his body, adding that it could impact his final decision."

"Injuries have hindered Bichette's availability in recent years, limiting him to fewer than 140 games played in each of the past three seasons - including just 81 contests in 2024. Last season's absence, however, was caused by a fluke home-plate collision at Yankee Stadium back in September, suffering a left knee sprain that sidelined him until Game 1 of the World Series."

Kyle Tucker signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers on the second-richest AAV contract in MLB history, removing him from the market. The current Blue Jays lineup — Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, Alejandro Kirk, Anthony Santander, Addison Barger and Kazuma Okamoto — is considered capable of defending the AL crown, so immediate replacement is not mandatory. Any further additions would reduce existing playing time, requiring careful front-office evaluation. Bo Bichette remains available and is a potential target, but the Philadelphia Phillies are highly involved. Bichette is reportedly seeking a long-term deal and has expressed concerns about Rogers Centre's artificial turf and recent injuries.

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