When the New York Mets signed Bo Bichette to a three-year, $126 million deal this offseason, they were betting on more than just his bat.
The organization is trusting that Bichette can successfully transition from shortstop to third base, while also adapting to the intense spotlight that comes with playing in New York. It’s a major shift for the 28-year-old infielder, but he’s already taking steps to ensure the move goes smoothly.
One of those steps involves seeking advice from a player who knows exactly what it takes to thrive at third base in Queens: Mets legend David Wright.
Bichette reaches out to a franchise icon
During spring training in Port St. Lucie, Wright revealed that Bichette personally reached out to him for guidance before the season begins.
The request caught Wright slightly off guard, but it also impressed him.
“I was excited and surprised when Bo reached out and asked if I was coming down and if I had a few minutes for him,” Wright told reporters. “I’m not sure what direction that conversation will go — whether it’s about third base, New York, or something else — but I’m excited to spend some time with him.”
Wright spent his entire 14-year career with the Mets, becoming one of the most respected players in franchise history. A seven-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glove winner, and the team’s fourth captain, he remains a powerful presence within the organization.
For Bichette, there may be no better person to learn from.
Adjusting to a new position
The defensive transition could be one of the biggest challenges Bichette faces in 2026.
After spending the first seven seasons of his MLB career at shortstop, he is now expected to play third base on a daily basis for the Mets. While the position change may seem subtle, the responsibilities and reaction times required at the hot corner are very different.
Wright’s expertise could prove invaluable. During his career, he was widely regarded as one of the best defensive third basemen in baseball, combining strong instincts, quick reactions, and leadership in the field.
For a player like Bichette — whose defense at shortstop had occasionally drawn criticism — learning from Wright could accelerate his development at the new position.
Seeking advice from multiple stars
Wright isn’t the only elite third baseman Bichette has consulted.
Earlier this offseason, Bichette revealed that he also spoke with Matt Chapman and Nolan Arenado, two of the most decorated defensive players at the position.
Chapman owns five Gold Gloves, while Arenado has captured ten Gold Gloves, making them ideal resources for understanding the nuances of third base.
“I’m lucky enough to have personal relationships with some really great third basemen,” Bichette said earlier this spring. “Some of the best to ever do it.”
He explained that he has been studying what works for them and trying to adapt those lessons to his own game.
Preparing for the New York spotlight
Beyond the positional shift, Bichette will also need to adjust to the pressure of playing in New York, where expectations are significantly higher than in many other markets.
That challenge is another reason Wright’s advice could be so valuable.
Few players understand the mental demands of New York better than Wright, who spent more than a decade serving as the face of the Mets franchise.
The fact that Bichette initiated the conversation speaks to his mindset as he enters this new chapter.
Early signs of leadership
By proactively seeking advice from veterans and legends, Bichette is showing a level of maturity that Mets fans will likely appreciate.
His offensive production has never been in doubt — he remains one of the league’s most consistent hitters, capable of producing 180-plus hits in a season.
If he can combine that offensive consistency with solid defense at third base, the Mets’ investment could pay off quickly.
The transition won’t be easy. But with guidance from players like David Wright, Bichette appears determined to make it work — and to succeed under the bright lights of New York.
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