Vladdy bids emotional farewell to his longtime friend

Toronto Blue Jays fans are continuing to process the shocking news of Friday's (Jan. 16th) bombshell of Bo Bichette electing to join the New York Mets on a three-year, $126 million deal. While the debate will go on amongst the fanbase about whether it was worth it to keep Bichette, nobody's probably feeling it more than his longtime teammate, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Vladdy: "I feel sad after playing with him so for many years."

Rogers Sportsnet's Hazel Mae stated on X that she reached out to Guerrero Jr. to get his reaction on Bichette's decision to leave the Blue Jays. As any longtime friend would react, it certainly was bittersweet.

"Of course, I feel sad sad after playing with him for so many years, but like I've always said, this is a business, and you have to look out for what's best for you and your family. I wish him the best. We won't be teammates anymore, but our friendship will last forever."

The history between Guerrero Jr. and Bichette dates back to 2017. First teaming up in Single-A Dunedin, the duo both made their MLB debuts in 2019, being ranked initially first and second, respectively, in the Blue Jays' Top 30 prospects. They've been practically inseparable, and they made it known in the past that they wanted to be teammates for life.

Back in September 2024, Bichette stated his ultimate goal was to team up with Guerrero Jr. and the Blue Jays for life. Guerrero Jr. would go on to sign his 14-year, $500 million extension with the Blue Jays, avoiding free agency at the end of the 2025 season.

Regardless, fans well noted their friendship over the years, and the sight of not seeing them together in 2026 will take time to get used to. However, you can mark your calendar for their reunion, as the Mets visit the Blue Jays June 29-July 1.