SF Giants free agent target open to position change, broadening his market

SF Giants free agent target Willy Adames is primarily a shortstop. However, it has been reported that he is open to changing positions to either third base or second base in an effort to broaden his market and play for a contending team.

This could be bad news for the Giants. If Adames was deadset on being a shortstop no matter what, that would make the Giants a more appealing suitor since he would certainly be their shortstop if they signed him.

SF Giants free agent target Willy Adames considering position change

His willingness to play elsewhere on the diamond now opens his market to other teams that may not need a shortstop but could use an upgrade at third base or second base. The New York Mets spring to mind as a team with a clear shortstop in Francisco Lindor but potential openings at other spots in the infield.

Adames did have a down year defensively in 2024 with the Milwaukee Brewers. He made 20 errors on the year and had a .963 fielding percentage. Advanced stats had him about in the middle of the pack defensively at shortstop which was a regression for him considering his reputation as an above average defender prior to 2024.

The fact that he is considering a position change does not guarantee he will not sign with the Giants by any means. Just because he is open to a position change does not mean that it wouldn't be his preference to remain a shortstop. Guys who play shortstop for their whole career take pride in the fact that they can handle arguably the most demanding position in the infield. There would certainly be some pride lost if he opted to play a different position.

Unfortunately, the Giants must contend with the fact that the Los Angeles Dodgers are also likely to be in the market for a shortstop and have been connected to Adames as well. Since that franchise can print money with reckless abandon, it would not be great for the Giants if they got in a bidding war with the Dodgers for Adames.

Nonetheless, the more teams there are in the market for Adames means that it will be tougher for the Giants to sign him. Perhaps the fact that they can guarantee he will be their shortstop of the future will be enticing enough to get him to come to San Francisco.