Willy Adames is going to finish in the top ten of National League MVP voting, but where will he be in 2025?

Willy Adames has emerged as one of the standout players in Major League Baseball, particularly during his time with the Milwaukee Brewers. As the 2024 season concluded with the Brewers’ unfortunate exit in the National League wild card round, the question of Adames’s future became a pressing topic for fans and analysts alike. At just 29 years old, Adames is set to enter free agency, and his impressive season has only bolstered his market value. He finished the year hitting .251 with 32 home runs and 112 RBI, showcasing his ability to carry the team, especially during stretches when Christian Yelich was sidelined.

His performance has not only placed him firmly in the conversation for the top ten of National League MVP voting but also positioned him as one of the most sought-after free agents heading into the offseason. The Brewers are in a tough spot; while they would love to retain their star shortstop, they face a challenging financial landscape. Given that Adames is likely to command a contract in the range of $150-200 million, it raises significant questions about whether Milwaukee can afford to keep him.

The prospect of losing a player of Adames’s caliber is daunting for any franchise. He has been more than just a productive player; he has been the spiritual leader of the Brew Crew, a player who inspires both on and off the field. His work ethic, combined with his natural talent, makes him a cornerstone player that teams can rally around. Yet, the realities of baseball economics often dictate that small-market teams like the Brewers must make tough decisions, especially when it comes to investing heavily in long-term contracts for players entering their 30s.

As the Brewers weigh their options, MLB Insider Jon Heyman has reported that several teams are poised to make a play for Adames should he hit the open market. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and San Francisco Giants are three clubs that have been identified as potential landing spots for the star shortstop. Each of these teams presents a unique set of circumstances that could make them an attractive option for Adames.

The Dodgers are historically known for their financial prowess and willingness to invest in top-tier talent. They have consistently been a playoff contender, and with a few gaps in their lineup—most notably at shortstop—Adames could be the missing piece they need to solidify their infield. Los Angeles has a reputation for making bold moves and has the resources to pursue Adames aggressively. Moreover, the connection between Dodgers’ President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman and Adames’s former team, the Tampa Bay Rays, adds an interesting layer to the potential deal. The Dodgers have a history of acquiring players from the Rays, and this relationship could facilitate a smooth negotiation process.

Meanwhile, the Braves are coming off a season that saw them continue their strong performance in the National League East. While Orlando Arcia has filled in admirably at shortstop, Adames would undoubtedly represent an upgrade for a team that is eager to contend for a World Series title. Atlanta has shown a willingness to invest in talent that can help them take that next step, and adding a player of Adames’s caliber to their roster could be the key to elevating them above their competition.

The San Francisco Giants also find themselves in a position where they need to bolster their roster. Having made waves in the past offseason with high-profile signings like Blake Snell and Jung Hoo Lee, the Giants have demonstrated their ambition to compete at a high level. With Snell likely heading for free agency, the team will have some financial flexibility to explore other big-name signings. Adames fits perfectly into their plans as a young, talented shortstop who can anchor their lineup for years to come. The Giants have been linked to several big-name players over the years, and Adames could be the next target in their quest for a championship-caliber team.

While the potential for Adames to leave Milwaukee is concerning, it’s also a testament to the player’s growth and development over his seven-year career in the majors. After beginning his career with the Tampa Bay Rays, Adames blossomed in Milwaukee, becoming an integral part of the team’s success. His ability to produce offensively while also being a strong defender at shortstop has made him a valuable asset in today’s game, where the importance of versatility and athleticism is more pronounced than ever.

As the offseason approaches, the Brewers will have to make some hard decisions. They could opt to make a significant financial commitment to Adames in hopes of retaining their star, but this could limit their ability to address other roster needs. Alternatively, they might decide to prioritize their financial resources elsewhere, which could lead to Adames seeking opportunities with teams that are willing to pay for his services.

For Adames, the decision will also involve personal and professional considerations. Joining a contender like the Dodgers, Braves, or Giants could offer him the chance to compete for a World Series title—an opportunity that is always appealing for any player. Additionally, the prospect of playing in a larger market could also be enticing, given the increased visibility and fanfare that often accompanies such environments.

However, it’s important to note that loyalty and familiarity often play significant roles in a player’s decision-making process. Adames has built strong relationships within the Brewers organization and community during his time there. The fans have embraced him, and he has become a pivotal figure in Milwaukee’s baseball culture. This emotional connection can sometimes weigh heavily on a player’s heart when considering free agency.

Ultimately, as the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Willy Adames and his next move. Whether he remains with the Brewers or finds a new home with one of the National League powers, there’s no denying that his impact on the game will continue to be felt. For Brewers fans, the hope is that they can secure the future of a player who has not only excelled on the field but has also become a beloved figure in the organization.

As discussions about Adames’s future intensify, the landscape of Major League Baseball will undoubtedly shift. His signing could set off a chain reaction that influences other free agency decisions, trades, and roster constructions across the league. In a sport that thrives on narratives and storylines, Willy Adames’s journey from the Brewers to potentially joining one of the National League heavyweights adds yet another layer of intrigue to an already exciting offseason.

However, the Milwaukee Brewers face a pivotal moment regarding Willy Adames’s future. The potential for him to leave in free agency looms large, but the implications of such a decision extend beyond just one player. It reflects the broader challenges faced by small-market teams in retaining star talent while competing against larger franchises willing to spend. As Adames considers his options, both the emotional ties to Milwaukee and the lure of joining a powerhouse team will weigh heavily in his decision-making process. Whatever happens, the impact of his choices will resonate throughout the league and shape the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball for years to come.