C.J. Nitkowski explains why Bo Bichette’s free agency has moved more slowly than expected

C.J. Nitkowski has spent years inside major league clubhouses, and he knows when a quiet market is part of a plan rather than a problem. The former MLB pitcher believes teams this offseason are operating with patience, shaped by depth and long-term thinking.

Speaking on Toronto Sports Rush, Nitkowski framed the current free-agent landscape as one defined by options, not urgency.His remarks gained attention because they offered context to a situation that has puzzled many observers. Among the players affected is Bo Bichette, coming off a productive 2025 season. While Bichette’s numbers speak for themselves, Nitkowski’s view suggests the slower pace around his free agency reflects how teams are reading the broader market rather than reassessing the player himself.

C.J. Nitkowski believes market depth is shaping Bo Bichette’s free agency

"The one thing about teams that are looking at Bo Bichette as a second baseman that they know they can keep in mind, is that next year, the second base market is pretty flush," Nitkowski said.From Nitkowski’s perspective, that awareness changes how teams behave. Clubs are not just reacting to what is available now. They are weighing what is coming next."There are some really good options. Nico Hoerner is going to be a free agent.

(Brandon) Lowe is going to be a free agent next year.There's a pretty long list."That expected depth gives teams confidence. When front offices believe alternatives will be available, the need to move quickly fades."Ozzie Albies, potentially, could be a free agent. There's some pretty good ones. Gleyber Torres out there as well." With those names in mind, Nitkowski suggested teams may feel comfortable waiting rather than stretching budgets or timelines."For the teams looking at Bo as a second baseman, I don't think they're going to necessarily overextend themselves, because if they feel like they have another solution, at least short term for 2026, they know there's a really good market out there for 2027."The takeaway from Nitkowski’s comments is measured but clear. There is little doubt about Bichette’s production with the Toronto Blue Jays. The slower pace has more to do with the market than the player. Teams believe they have alternatives coming, and that belief has allowed them to hold off. Nitkowski views the situation as a matter of timing, not talent.Also read: Why Bo Bichette remains unsigned as the Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox make their moves