Giants are expected to sign a 32-home run slugger to a likely $185 million deal

A new era begins for the San Francisco Giants: Buster Posey takes over baseball operations. Could free-agent shortstop Willy Adames be an important part of the Giants’ offseason makeover?

Adames is one of the best players available in MLB in free agency. He is also the best shortstop available, and several teams are trying to fill the position. San Francisco is joined by at least the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves as teams potentially looking to improve that spot on the diamond. Combine that with his willingness to change positions when the opportunity arises and many teams will have a significant lead on the 29-year-old.

It helps that he just completed one of the best offensive years of his career. Adames hit .251/.331/.462 and set new career highs for home runs (32), doubles (33), RBI (112), runs scored (93) and steals (21) in 688 plate appearances. The 2024 season marked the fifth time he surpassed the 20-homer plateau since his debut in 2018.

The Giants have been linked to Adames since last winter, when there was a possibility that the Milwaukee Brewers would trade him. Posey also specifically mentioned that San Francisco will be pursuing a shortstop this winter. PGH Baseball Now’s Danny Demilio shared predictions for the top 50 free agents in baseball and named the Giants as Adames’ landing spot.

This is supported by the majority opinion of MLB.com reporters and analysts, who also believe Adames is on his way to Bay. The shortstop’s total compensation ultimately depends on how serious the bidding is between the interested teams. However, a guarantee of at least $150 million seems likely. RJ Anderson of CBS Sports predicts the right-hander will sign a seven-year, $185 million contract.

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