Bo Bichette returns to Toronto after Mets signing

An emotional Bo Bichette returned to Toronto on Monday for the first time since leaving the Blue Jays, fighting back tears as he reflected on his seven-year tenure with the only major league team he had known before this season. The New York Mets infielder became visibly moved during a pregame media session at Rogers Centre, pausing to collect himself when asked about the reception he expected from fans.

"I gave it everything I had," Bichette said. "I just hope that's appreciated."

Monday marked Bichette's first game in Toronto since the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Blue Jays in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series, a classic finale in which Bichette hit a three-run home run off Shohei Ohtani to give Toronto an early lead before the Dodgers rallied to win in extra innings. The 28-year-old said he had replayed that game in his head many times, calling it a cool moment despite the ultimate disappointment. The Blue Jays have not won a World Series since 1993.

Following that postseason run, Bichette became a free agent and signed a three-year, $126 million contract with the Mets in January. He said that during free agency, he had a feeling his time in Toronto was over, and he does not...