Shortstop Willy Adames and the San Francisco Giants are in agreement on a seven-year,$182 million contract,the largest outlay in franchise history,sources told ESPN on Saturday.
Adames, 29, was the Giants’ top target this winter. With the best free agent on the market, Juan Soto, likely to choose his team in the next 48 hours, San Francisco struck a deal with Adames, who was also being considered by teams in the running for Soto.
Adames has been a consistent presence in the middle of the Milwaukee Brewers’ lineup for the past four seasons after arriving in a trade from the Tampa Bay Rays. Adames’ 30-homer power is rare for a shortstop and the Giants have struggled to find a replacement for Brandon Crawford, who manned the position for 13 seasons.
The deal, which is pending a physical, breaks the franchise-record $167 million given to catcher Buster Posey, who is in his first year as the Giants’ president of baseball operations. It will include a $22 million signing bonus, according to sources.
Adames had career highs in home runs (32), RBIs (112) and stolen bases (21) in 2024 while finishing fifth in FanGraphs Wins Above Replacement among shortstops. Adames also tied the major league record for most three-run home runs in a single season with 13, helping the Brewers to the National League Central title.
Other teams were considering using Adames as a third baseman, but the Giants will hope his glove continues to match his offensive output. Over his seven-year career, Adames has slashed .248/.322/.444 with 150 home runs, 472 RBIs and 51 stolen bases.
How might Willy Adames’ signing impact the future of other shortstops in Major league baseball?
Interview with Jeff Passan: Analyzing Willy Adames’ Historic Contract with the San Francisco Giants
Q: Jeff,thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in. The San Francisco Giants have just secured shortstop Willy Adames with a monumental seven-year, $182 million contract. What does this signify for the franchise?
A: Thanks for having me! This contract is a game-changer for the Giants.It represents their commitment to returning to competitive prominence by investing heavily in a player who can provide both immediate and long-term contributions.Given that it surpasses the previous record set for Buster Posey, it shows how highly the association values Adames and what he brings to the table.
Q: Adames has had quite a journey, most recently with the Milwaukee Brewers. What do you think contributed to the Giants’ decision to target him over other free agents like Juan Soto?
A: Willy Adames is uniquely positioned as a shortstop with an outstanding offensive pedigree, something that’s hard to come by. With his impressive 30-homer power and ability to drive in runs – he posted career highs last season – he stands out as a top-tier player. The Giants recognized that they needed to fill the void left by Brandon Crawford, and Adames’ bat and glove make him an excellent fit. While soto is certainly a remarkable player, the Giants prioritized securing a consistent middle-of-the-order presence that can offer defensive stability at a critical position.
Q: This deal is pending a physical. Can you shed some light on the importance of this step for both the team and the player?
A: The physical is crucial in ensuring that Adames’ body is ready for the rigors of a long, grueling season, especially given the length of the contract. It protects the Giants’ investment and helps them evaluate any potential risks. For Adames,it’s also a moment of validation,confirming that he’s in peak condition to start this new chapter in San Francisco.
Q: With Adames’ ability to hit for power and create runs, how do you foresee him impacting the Giants’ lineup moving forward?
A: Adames has the potential to transform the Giants’ lineup.His ability to hit for power – tying the major league record for three-run home runs in a single season – alongside his speed on the bases will provide the Giants with a dynamic offensive weapon. He can complement their existing lineup effectively, be a driving force in their order, and elevate the overall run production, which is vital for their success in tight games.
Q: Looking at the broader picture, what does this deal mean for the free agency market this offseason?
A: This sets a powerful precedent. It signals to other teams about the willingness to make significant investments in players who can make an immediate impact. As teams look to enhance their rosters in a competitive market, we can expect other players to take note of what Adames achieved with this contract. The Giants’ eagerness to invest this much in Adames could help escalate overall player valuations and contract expectations moving forward.
Q: for fans and aspiring young players, what practical advice would you give regarding contract negotiations and the business side of baseball?
A: The most critical piece of advice I can give is to focus on both your on-field performance and personal brand. Players who consistently excel in specific areas tend to attract attention. Emphasizing versatility and adaptability is also crucial in today’s game, especially in how teams evaluate talent for various roles. additionally, engaging with coaches, knowing your worth, and understanding the market landscape are vital in contract negotiations. Building a strong support system, including a learned agent, can also help navigate these waters effectively.
Q: Thank you, Jeff, for sharing your insights on this significant contract and its implications for the San Francisco Giants and Major League Baseball as a whole.
A: My pleasure! it’s always exciting to discuss the direction of the league and how impactful players are reshaping their franchises.