Willy Adames has quickly become one of the most coveted free agents in Major League Baseball, and for good reason. Known for his leadership and winning mentality, Adames has consistently been a key contributor to his teams’ success. After spending his career in smaller markets with the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers, Adames is now set to cash in on his standout 2024 season, which could be the catalyst for a lucrative contract.
“Everywhere he’s been, they’ve won,” said fellow shortstop Dansby Swanson. “He’s a gamer.” Since Adames made his MLB debut in 2018, his teams have posted the highest winning percentage among shortstops, with a .586 win rate, according to ESPN Research. This impressive stat highlights his ability to impact a game and contribute to team success, setting him apart from other shortstops like Carlos Correa, Xander Bogaerts, and Trea Turner, all of whom have multiple All-Star selections but don’t have the same level of team success in their games.
Adames’ career year in 2024 has only elevated his free-agent value. He set personal bests with 32 home runs, 112 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases. He also excelled in clutch situations, hitting 14 multirun home runs—five more than any other player in 2024—and leading all of MLB with 13 three-run homers, tying Ken Griffey Jr.’s all-time mark. His ability to perform under pressure was highlighted by his 28 RBIs in late-game situations, the fifth most in baseball this season.
While Adames is a capable shortstop, he’s also being considered for a position change, especially as he ages. He has expressed openness to moving to third base if it fits his potential team’s needs. His strong arm and range make him a solid candidate for the hot corner, and some believe he could be even more effective there than at shortstop.
Adames’ versatility, combined with his ability to hit in big moments, makes him an attractive option for numerous contending teams. The New York Mets, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves are all teams that could be interested in his services, and his willingness to adapt to different positions only broadens his appeal. In fact, if he ends up with a team that already has a primary shortstop, he could be asked to switch positions, with third base being the most likely landing spot.
This season, Adames finished 10th in NL MVP voting and proved he could be a franchise centerpiece. He is reportedly looking for a long-term deal worth $150 million to $200 million, reflecting his strong 4.8 WAR season, which is comparable to that of other top shortstops in recent free-agent classes. As one NL executive put it, “He’s worked hard to get into a position where he’s considered with those guys. He’s going to get paid.” With his all-around skill set, clutch performances, and leadership abilities, Willy Adames is poised to make a major impact on the free-agent market this offseason.