Dodgers Likely to Sign High-Profile Superstar Slugger to $529 Million Deal
The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing several key decisions this offseason as they prepare to defend their World Series title next year.
One of the biggest questions for the team is whether they will move six-time Gold Glove winner Mookie Betts back to the infield or keep him in the outfield, while utility player Tommy Edman fills in where needed.
However, a potentially better solution could emerge if the Dodgers can convince one of the offseason’s most sought-after talents to sign with them.
“Bringing in former Milwaukee Brewer Willy Adames would allow the Dodgers to keep Betts in the outfield, where they’re already considering how to handle the potential departure or re-signing of Teoscar Hernández.
This would also help the Dodgers avoid the need for multiple solutions if Betts stays in the outfield,” wrote Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller on Wednesday, discussing where free agents who turned down qualifying offers might end up this offseason. “Contract Prediction: 7 years, $189 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
Adames, who has played for both the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers, has compiled a career .248 batting average, with 327 extra-base hits, including 150 home runs, 472 RBIs, and a .766 OPS across seven seasons.
Miller added, “If the Dodgers are hesitant in any way, the San Francisco Giants could swoop in. They’ve already expressed interest in adding a shortstop this offseason, and after striking out on big free-agent targets in recent years, they’re overdue for a major addition. My prediction is the Dodgers make it happen, but the Giants wouldn’t be a shock.”
Signing Adames would provide the Dodgers with an established shortstop, especially one who has hit 24 or more home runs in each of the last four seasons. While the deal won’t come cheap, securing Adames would significantly strengthen the Dodgers’ chances of pursuing their tenth World Series title in 2025.