The Milwaukee Brewers have been in the midst of significant changes this offseason, with key departures and arrivals reshaping their roster. Following the departure of manager Craig Counsell and the trade of ace Corbin Burnes, attention now turns to shortstop Willy Adames, who is set to become a free agent after the upcoming season.
Despite a down season in 2023, Adames remains a valuable asset at just 28 years old, showcasing consistent performance over the past few years. However, given the Brewers’ likely inability to compete in a bidding war for his services in free agency, trading him appears increasingly likely.
Here are three compelling reasons why the Brewers might opt to trade Adames sooner rather than later:
- Shallow Free Agent Market: The current free-agent pool lacks quality shortstops, making Adames a coveted asset in a seller’s market. With few viable alternatives available, teams in need of a shortstop are likely to aggressively pursue Adames, driving up his trade value.
- Demand from Contenders: Several postseason contenders, including the Braves, Giants, Guardians, and Marlins, are in need of a stable shortstop. Adames’ skill set makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their infield, potentially leading to a bidding war among interested parties.
- Ready Replacement in Joey Ortiz: Acquired in the Burnes trade, Joey Ortiz is seen as the Brewers’ shortstop of the future. With Ortiz showcasing promising offensive and defensive abilities in the minor leagues, trading Adames would pave the way for Ortiz to assume the starting role, aligning with Milwaukee’s long-term plans.
Moreover, trading Adames would not only yield a valuable trade package but also free up salary space to address other roster needs, such as solidifying the third base position.
While retaining Adames for another postseason run is a viable option, exploring trade opportunities allows the Brewers to capitalize on his current market value and align with their organizational strategy for sustained success.
In conclusion, with the trade deadline looming, the Brewers face a pivotal decision regarding Adames’ future. While keeping him for the upcoming season is a possibility, the allure of maximizing his trade value and addressing other roster needs makes exploring trade options an enticing proposition for Milwaukee.
