Phillies pursuing Bo Bichette should open clear path to Pirates' next move

If the Philadelphia Phillies are really kicking the tires on Bo Bichette, the Pittsburgh Pirates should be acting like the next domino is already wobbling.

Multiple reports say Philadelphia has at least scheduled a meeting with Bichette, and the whole thing is weirdly logical for them: they’re a win-now roster that keeps falling short, so they’re shopping for another high-end bat. Fine. But the real story is what it would do to Philly’s infield. 

Here’s what it comes down to: the Phillies already have Trea Turner at shortstop. If they sign Bichette anyway, somebody is moving, somebody is losing reps, and somebody is suddenly more tradable than they were a week ago. That “somebody” has Bohm written all over it, and even the national rumor mill is basically saying a Bichette addition could put Bohm squarely into the “available” bucket. 

This is where the Pirates have no excuse. Their third base situation has been a rotating “we’ll figure it out” sign for too long. The lineup has enough young pieces to dream on, but it still needs fewer questions and more actual answers — especially at the hot corner. Bohm isn’t a world-beater by any means, but he is the kind of stabilizer this front office should be targeting. 

Phillies circling Bo Bichette could hand Pirates the perfect Alec Bohm trade opening

In 2025, Bohm hit .287 with 11 homers and a .741 OPS in 120 games. Pittsburgh’s third basemen, meanwhile, combined to hit .222 with six home runs, 51 RBI, and a .573 OPS. You don’t need a calculator to see it — Bohm would be a massive upgrade.

Also, Bohm and the Phillies reportedly avoided arbitration at $10.2 million for 2026, with free agency looming after the 2027 season. Philly would have a real incentive to move him if they decide he’s not in the long-term plan, and the Pirates could add a legit everyday third baseman without detonating their payroll. 

And yes, Bohm will cost something. But this is exactly the type of deal where the Pirates can lean on depth, offering a prospect or two that Philly actually likes without touching any of the truly untouchable names.

So if Philly lands Bichette, Pittsburgh’s next move should be obvious. Call on Bohm immediately. Don’t get cute waiting for the market continuing to “develop.”