What happened: Bo Bichette faces an upcoming contract opt-in decision that will determine whether he remains under his current deal or tests the open market.

Why it matters: The decision carries major roster and payroll implications following a 2026 campaign in which Bichette powered an early offensive surge with a June grand slam and navigated a midseason injury delay.

What to watch: Bichette must formally exercise or decline the opt-in clause before the offseason deadline following the conclusion of the 2026 MLB postseason.