After slow start, SF Giants power-hitting infielder looking to end longstanding drought

The SF Giants made the biggest free agency signing in franchise history in the offseason. Adding Willy Adames was the first step in the Buster Posey POBO era. Adames struggled to begin his tenure with the Giants. He has now emerged as a leader and keystone of the squad, as he approaches 30 home runs.

After slow start, SF Giants power-hitting infielder looking to end longstanding drought

After hitting only .233 through the first two months of the season, many fans were quick to criticize the Giants' newest shortstop, and can you really blame them? After 13 years of Brandon Crawford at shortstop, fans are going to expect perfection in the gap.

Nonetheless, Adames kept his head high and did what he could, which was being a positive dugout energy. He could be spotted at the top of the dugout through his slump, celebrating others, and now the good Karma is finally coming around to him.

With 24 games left to go, Adames has the chance to crack 30 home runs, currently sitting at 24. But why is this significant? Well, the SF Giants haven't had a 30 home run hitter since Barry Bonds in 2004.

While Rafael Devers is also quickly approaching that mark, a majority of his home runs this season were in Boston, so a 30-homer season from him wouldn't exactly break the streak.

Who better to break the streak than a guy who has been nothing but vocal about how happy he is to be with this squad. A player who embodies what it means to be a Giant, and to go out there and put your best foot forward even when you struggle.

Adames has 21 home runs since June 1. He has been one of the most exciting parts of a Giants team that still holds onto slim playoff hopes. Adames breaking what feels like a curse could be a bright spot to a dark end of the season.

Adames will be in San Francisco for a long time, so fans should be happy that he is becoming invested in the Giants. In a lot of ways, Adames' leadership has been such a boost to this team.

Ranking in the 87th percentile of shortstops for outs above average, Adames has established himself among the top shortstops in baseball this season. Tied for first in home runs at his position and ranked sixth in runs scored. Since the All-Star bereak, Adames is fifth in the MLB in home runs and he looks to continue that trend.

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