Few players have been as closely associated with the Toronto Blue Jays’ recent success as Bo Bichette. During his seven big-league seasons with the organization, the star shortstop became one of the faces of the franchise, helping lead the club through multiple postseason appearances while earning a pair of All-Star selections.
That made his departure to the New York Mets in free agency one of the biggest storylines of the winter. Now, for the first time since signing elsewhere, Bichette is preparing to return to Rogers Centre as an opposing player, creating one of the most anticipated moments on Toronto’s schedule.
Toronto Blue Jays Manager John Schneider Predicts ‘Hate’ Response To Bo Bichette’s Return
Blue Jays manager John Schneider expects Bichette’s reception from Blue Jays fans to be emotional, even if he doesn’t think Bichette will show much emotion himself.
“Oh, I’m sure he’ll hate it,” Schneider said of Bichette’s likely response to extra attention from the crowd, according to Sportsnet’s Arden Zwelling. “I think he’ll tip his helmet. But I’m sure you won’t get a smile. You may get a smile in the dugout. But I’m sure he’ll be locked in to hit.”
The comment reflects the competitive focus that defined Bichette throughout his Toronto tenure, with Schneider suggesting that any special reaction from the crowd will be answered with little acknowledgement once the former franchise shortstop is in the batter’s box.
Toronto Blue Jays’ Former Superstar Bo Bichette Returns After Exit
Bichette’s return carries added significance, given everything he accomplished during his time with the organization.
“Bichette, after seven years and 748 games with the Blue Jays, in January signed a three-year, $126 million deal to play elsewhere,” The Athletic’s Mitch Bannon recalled before the return game. “He aided Toronto to four playoff appearances and one World Series run, and delivered a pair of All-Star seasons. He helped put a stop to a rebuild and kickstart a new era in Toronto. Now, he comes back as a temporary visitor.”
How players respond to significant returns often depends on personality. Some former franchise players appear to enjoy the video tributes and cheers, or even boos, from their former fans. Others attempt to ignore the extra fanfare as they focus on the task at hand for their new teams.
“The significance of that first game back, (Blue Jays starter) Dylan Cease said, depends on the temperament of the player,” Bannon added. “The boisterous fan favourites might thrive in the welcome-back spotlight while quieter types shy away.”
Bichette has generally preferred to let his play do the talking throughout his career, making Schneider’s prediction fitting. While Blue Jays fans are expected to welcome back one of the franchise’s recent stars, Toronto’s former All-Star will likely spend little time soaking in the moment before shifting his full attention to trying to beat his old club.