Mets’ Former GM Sounds Alarm On Bo Bichette’s $40 Million Exit Report

BusinessSportsMoneyMets’ Former GM Sounds Alarm On Bo Bichette’s $40 Million Exit ReportByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorJun 17, 2026, 06:30am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryThe New York Mets' offseason signing of Bo Bichette, a three-year, $126 million deal with opt-outs, is now under scrutiny. Reports suggest MLB executives expect Bichette to opt out after this season, potentially walking away from $79 million, with teams like the Phillies interested. However, former Mets GM Steve Phillips finds this unlikely, arguing Bichette's current performance wouldn't secure him comparable free-agent money. Phillips believes Bichette wouldn't command even $20 million annually on the open market. This puts Bichette in an unusual position, as his guaranteed money appears more valuable than what he'd find elsewhere. While other factors could influence his decision, opting out now would be a significant gamble given his season.Show More SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JUNE 02: Bo Bichette #19 of the New York Mets looks on against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on June 02, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe New York Mets made one of the offseason’s biggest bets when they signed former Toronto Blue Jays star Bo Bichette, banking on continued hitting production that could help push the franchise back into World Series contention.But now, a new report has suggested that executives around the sport expect Bichette to walk away from that highly lucrative signing.“Teams expect New York Mets third baseman Bo Bichette to opt out of the final two years of his Mets contract after the season, giving clubs like the Philadelphia Phillies a second shot at him,” Bob Nightengale reported...