Mets Already Facing Defensive Woes with New Third Baseman

Bo Bichette's struggles at the hot corner raise concerns for New York's championship hopes.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 3:34am

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The New York Mets signed Bo Bichette in the offseason, but the former shortstop has struggled mightily in his transition to third base. Bichette has already made multiple errant throws from the hot corner, including one that nearly pulled the first baseman off the bag. The Mets are now faced with the challenge of either helping Bichette improve his defense at the position or potentially moving him to a different spot on the diamond.

Why it matters

The Mets have high expectations this season and see Bichette as a key part of their lineup. However, his defensive struggles at third base could undermine the team's championship aspirations if they can't get the issue resolved quickly. The Mets will need to find a solution to shore up their infield defense.

The details

In his very first game of the season, Bichette made a throw from third base that pulled the first baseman several feet off the bag, though the runner was still thrown out. Then on Saturday, Bichette made another wild throw that did not result in an out. This is particularly concerning because Bichette had never played a single inning at third base in his MLB career before this season, having been a shortstop his entire professional career.

  • Bichette's first errant throw came in the Mets' season opener on March 28, 2026.
  • The second concerning throw from Bichette occurred on March 28, 2026 during a spring training game.

The players

Bo Bichette

The Mets' new third baseman, who was previously a shortstop for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Jorge Polanco

The Mets' first baseman who had to field Bichette's wild throw in the season opener.

Marcus Semien

The Mets' second baseman, whose presence at the position forced Bichette to move to third base.

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What they’re saying

“Bo Bichette showing off that arm 👀”

— ktb.kendrick2

What’s next

The Mets will need to closely monitor Bichette's progress at third base and provide him with additional defensive training and support to help him adjust to the new position. If the issues persist, the team may need to consider moving Bichette to a different spot on the diamond that better suits his skillset.

The takeaway

Bichette's defensive struggles at third base are an early concern for the Mets, who are counting on him to be a key part of their lineup. The team will need to act quickly to help Bichette improve his defense or risk undermining their championship aspirations this season.