Is a Former Blue Jay the Answer to the Yankees Shortstop Problem?

The New York Yankees have a knack for overlooking the obvious when building their roster. General manager Brian Cashman says they need a quality right-handed bat to balance out their lefty-heavy lineup. The organization insists the shortstop position must provide more offense. They long for a true partner to pair with Aaron Judge, like they once had with Juan Soto. Yet, there’s one player available right now who checks every single box, and somehow, he remains overlooked.

The man they seek but cannot be named has played in the same division and performed at a high level for years. He’s a .299 career hitter who delivers both power and production by averaging 24 home runs, 88 RBIs, and 94 runs scored per 162 games played. He’s a 27-year-old gamer who’s already tallied two all-star appearances and three top-15 MVP finishes. On one good leg, Bo Bichette helped his club get within an eyelash of winning the World Series last year. He is the elephant in the room, impossible to ignore yet somehow still unmentioned by the Yankees.

Bichette was widely expected to headline the free agent class this offseason, with teams lining up for a shot at his services. However, an unfortunate ankle injury suffered against the Yankees has unexpectedly lowered his market value, making him a potential bargain for any team bold enough to act. The reports that a seven-year deal in the $200 million range would be a windfall. For the Yankees, this is a golden opportunity. Bichette recently made headlines by expressing his willingness to play second base, a clear signal that he’s open to a new role and a new city.

Media speculation only adds fuel to the fire. As reported by The Athletic, one league executive remarked, “There’s a sense that Bichette would embrace the challenge of playing in New York if the fit was right.” In a recent MLB Network interview, Bichette himself stated, “I want to win, and I’m open to whatever helps the team, position, city, you name it.” An anonymous scout told the New York Post, “You get the feeling Bichette would love the spotlight and energy of Yankee Stadium.” If ever there was a moment for New York to pursue a star at a discount, this is it.

However, the problem ultimately points back to Yankee general manager Brian Cashman. He often uses metrics to defend his preferred players but ignores them when it comes to those he doesn’t want, even if they meet or exceed those same standards. The differences between Bo Bichette and Anthony Volpe are striking. Bichette is a proven hitter, currently boasting what would be the second-best average on the Yankees. Volpe, by contrast, has yet to show consistent offensive production at the Major League level. Critics of Bichette focus on his range and arm, but his 27 errors over the last three seasons pale in comparison to Volpe’s 52 in that time. Defensively, Bichette hovers around league average, while Volpe’s struggles have been more pronounced. Ultimately, Bichette’s offensive impact and steadier glove suggest he’d be a true upgrade at shortstop if only Cashman and the front office would objectively compare the two.

The debate between the highly favored Volpe and the proven Bichette ultimately comes down to impact. Bichette’s offensive firepower consistently outweighs any defensive concern, something the Yankees sorely lacked last season. If Bichette was the starting shortstop in 2025, it’s easy to imagine his bat turning several tight, defense-driven losses into wins. The difference is clear, and the upgrade is obvious. The Yankees’ solution is staring them in the face; they just need to recognize it.

In a franchise built on big moments and legendary players, ignoring the answer for the sake of stubbornness or analytical bias is a disservice to the team and its fans. Bo Bichette is the rare talent who checks every box, fills every need, and brings a winning mentality to the Bronx. If the Yankees are serious about chasing another title, it’s time to stop overthinking and make the move that could define the next championship run. It's time for the Yankees to bring Bo Bichette to New York before someone else does.