Why a Ketel Marte trade makes the Blue Jays worse than a Bo Bichette re-signing

"Though it may be financially difficult for the franchise to harbor another nine-figure contract, Bichette is a hero in Toronto and one of the best pure hitters in baseball. Seemingly likely to shift to second base moving forward, he'd make a nice long-term pairing with Andrés Giménez in the Blue Jays' middle infield. However, if Cease's contract does preclude them from dipping into Bichette's waters, Ketel Marte could prove to be a seamless alternative at the keystone."

"Marte, who turned 32 in October, has five years and $91 million remaining on his contract, plus an $11.5 million player option in 2031 (when he'd be 37). Paying an All-Star second baseman an average of $18 million per year over five years is a bargain in today's baseball landscape, but durability concerns and Marte's age may raise some warning signs, especially for a team like the Blue Jays."

Toronto Blue Jays completed a big-ticket acquisition of Dylan Cease and now face a decision about re-signing Bo Bichette. Re-signing Bichette would likely require another nine-figure contract and could be financially difficult. Bichette projects to move to second base and could form a long-term middle-infield pairing with Andrés Giménez. If Cease's deal prevents pursuing Bichette, Ketel Marte emerges as an attractive alternative. Marte is 32 with five years and $91 million remaining plus an $11.5 million player option in 2031. Marte provides solid defense and a lower average annual cost but carries durability and age concerns.

Read at Jays Journal