Bichette: 'Ultimate goal' is winning with Guerrero, Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette reaffirmed his commitment to the organization and his teammates amid much speculation.

"When I had time to think about what I want, basically, my ultimate goal really is to play with Vladdy (Guerrero Jr.) forever, to win a championship with him, and to do that with this organization," he said, according to Sportsnet's Shi Davidi.

The comments come amid swirling - albeit, unsubstantiated - rumors of Bichette having no interest in foregoing free agency in 2025 to sign a long-term contract extension with the Blue Jays.

He and Guerrero came up through Toronto's minor-league system together and have always shared a close bond.

"(Guerrero and I) have talked since we were 18 years old in low-A, we've looked at each other every single year and told each other that we want to be together forever and win as many championships as we can," Bichette said.

The two-time All-Star, currently working his way back from a calf strain suffered in July, has hit just .222/.275/.320 with four home runs in what has become a lost season marred by recurring injuries.

The Blue Jays have struggled in his absence, slumping to the AL East basement with a 68-76 record after making the postseason last year.

"From my point of view, what I'm focused on now is how do we get back to who we are here," Bichette said.

Bichette led the league in hits in both 2021 and 2022.