Reports suggest that the Los Angeles Dodgers are maintaining their interest in Milwaukee Brewers’ shortstop Willy Adames, as indicated by a league source disclosed to The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya. However, the Brewers currently have no intention of parting ways with him. Adames, aged 28, is set to become a free agent after the upcoming season.
During the previous season, Adames featured in 149 games for the Milwaukee Brewers, registering a batting average of .217 along with 24 home runs and 80 RBIs. Additionally, he stole five bases while being caught three times. Adames boasted a .310 batting average with Milwaukee last season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ interest in acquiring Adames stems partly from Gavin Lux’s loss of the shortstop position to Mookie Betts during spring training. Although Betts primarily plays in the outfield, he seems comfortable as a secondary shortstop option.
Lux’s absence due to injury throughout the 2023 season has further propelled the Dodgers’ pursuit of bolstering their roster. Being considered strong contenders for the 2024 World Series, the Dodgers are consistently seeking avenues to enhance their team.
Speculation arises that if the Milwaukee Brewers find themselves out of contention nearing the MLB trade deadline, Adames could become a highly sought-after asset on the trade market. In such a scenario, Milwaukee might opt for a transitional season in 2024. Adames’ defensive prowess and offensive capabilities could significantly benefit contending teams.
While general manager Matt Arnold may prefer retaining Adames and negotiating a new contract, recent decisions, such as not extending starting pitcher Corbin Burnes, suggest a pragmatic approach from the Brewers’ front office. If Milwaukee realizes they cannot retain Adames and are out of contention, trading him for prospects would be considered prudent business practice.
However, if the Brewers are leading their division closer to the trade deadline, they might opt to keep Adames rather than trade him to teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers or other contenders in need of a shortstop.
