SF Giants need to have a tough conversation about their shortstop

The SF Giants have had a strong start to the 2025 season, yet there are still areas in which they can improve. One main area of concern has been the defense of shortstop Willy Adames which could force a tough conversation.

When the Giants signed Adames to a franchise-record contract in the offseason, he had a reputation as a solid defender whose relatively down defensive year in 2024 was explained away as an anomaly.

SF Giants need to have tough conversation about Willy Adames

Yet, it seems those defensive struggles have carried over into 2025 as well. Adames has already made seven errors in 37 games this season. He made 20 errors in 161 games with the Milwaukee Brewers last season.

Looking at advanced metrics, Adames grades out as the second-worst shortstop in baseball based on Outs Above Average. Those metrics may be imperfect, but both his error total and the advanced stats suggest that his defense has been subpar.

The 29-year-old has said confidence issues are what led to his poor defense last season. He made two errors on Monday night against the Chicago Cubs but did not suggest a lack of confidence has plagued him this season.

There is still a long way to go and plenty of time for Adames to make things right on defense. Yet, there are inevitably going to be those who chafe at the fact that the Giants signed him to such a big contract while he has struggled with his glove.

If his poor defense continues, it may force the Giants to have to think about moving him to a different position in future seasons like second base. We are still a way off from that conversation, but it could be a more pressing one down the road if things do not change.

Thankfully, Adames has turned things around at the plate after a slow start. He is slashing .230/.314/.358 with four home runs and 19 runs batted in.

Even if Adames has not been at his complete best on the field so far, he has been an incredible leader for the Giants and has an impact on the clubhouse that goes beyond his stat line.

Of course, the Giants need him to play well if they want to have success this season but arguably his most important attribute is his ability to provde positive, infections energy to the team no matter what.

Let's hope the defense will sort itself out so Adames can be both a spiritual leader of the team and one of the best all-around players on the Giants.