Bichette adds new wrinkle to training

An avid mixed martial arts fan, Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette turned to a traditional combat sport for a new training technique in the off-season.

He tried muay thai last fall and incorporated it into his regular workouts along with swimming and Pilates.

“Honestly, it’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Bichette said. “It was mentally challenging to get through it. But I was lucky enough to have a trainer who pushed me really hard.

“I don’t know if that’s how every standard muay thai session goes, but he understood that I wanted to work hard and he really pushed me. So it was difficult.”

Muay thai is a standup striking discipline with workouts that typically include a cardiovascular component.

“It’s a combination of kicking, punching, everything,” Bichette said. “It was really hard work, which I enjoyed trying to conquer.”

Bichette started in late November at his trainer’s suggestion. The 25-year-old had always wanted to try it and was a quick sell.

His muay thai work also connected with his love for the UFC.

“I’ve had some teammates over the years that have been really into it,” he said. “I’ve started following it and now I love it. I can’t miss an event.”

UFC stars will sometimes drop in at Rogers Centre to watch batting practice and mingle with players.

“The only one I’ve ever met was GSP,” Bichette said, referring to legendary Canadian fighter Georges Stpierre. “I was younger at the time, so I didn’t really pick his brain or anything. But there’s probably not many better to meet than him.

“I haven’t talked to any of (the others), but I’m sure they’d have great things to say mentality-wise (about) conquering fear because I know I’d be scared walking into that Octagon.”