Giants Signing Willy Adames: A Solid Move with Risks

The San Francisco Giants recently made headlines by signing shortstop Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million contract. This deal is the largest in franchise history and represents the team’s effort to solidify its infield and enhance its lineup heading into the future.

Adames’ Performance and Value

Adames brings a combination of power and solid defense to the Giants. Over his seven seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers, he has showcased his offensive abilities with 150 home runs and 472 RBIs, paired with a career slash line of .248/.322/.444. He’s also proven himself as a dependable defender, earning an above-average Outs Above Average (OAA) and putting up a plus-16 OAA in 2023, making him one of the more reliable shortstops in the league.

Financial Considerations

The $182 million deal includes a $22 million signing bonus and a full no-trade clause. The average annual value (AAV) of around $26 million is seen as a reasonable commitment for a player of Adames’ caliber. This contract is also a smarter financial move compared to the Giants’ failed attempt to sign Carlos Correa in 2022, which fell apart due to medical concerns. Adames’ deal reflects the team’s confidence in him to contribute consistently on both sides of the ball.

The Risks Involved

Despite the significant upside, the contract also carries risks. Adames will be expected to perform at a high level throughout the term of the deal. While his track record has been solid, injuries or a decline in performance could hurt the team’s flexibility moving forward. The Giants have tied up considerable financial resources in Adames, and any downturn in his production could limit their ability to pursue future high-profile signings or address other areas of need.

The Bottom Line

The Giants’ signing of Willy Adames is a bold and strategic decision that reflects their commitment to staying competitive in the National League. While the contract does come with risks—especially considering its length and financial commitment—the potential rewards are clear. If Adames continues to perform at a high level, he will be a key piece in the Giants’ quest for postseason success over the next several years. Overall, it’s a solid move, but one that will require consistent performance from Adames to avoid becoming a financial burden.