After trading away Hunter Renfroe, many executives stated they expect the Brewers to continue trading. One name that has garnered speculation has been Willy Adames. The 27-year old has exceeded expectations, mashing 31 home runs and 98 RBIs in 2022.
The Brewers have been one of the busier teams this off-season. Milwaukee cleared space on their payroll by moving on from Brad Boxberger, Brent Suter, and Hunter Renfroe. While the Renfroe trade in particular seemed evident of a rebuild, the Brewers are showing signs of retooling. Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, and Willy Adames all have expiring team control and the payroll needs to be cleared for the Brewers to have a shot at signing them all.
Willy Adames recently spoke to MLB.com’s Adam McCalvy about his current relationship with Milwaukee. Adames stated, “I’m always open to listen to what they’re thinking, and if it’s something that’s good for both sides, I’m open to it.”
Adames also told McCalvy he has “had conversations” with the Brewers front office regarding a possible extension. While this is just the ice breaker for negotiations, it is a good sign the Brewers have talked to Adames. However, that hasn’t stopped the Dodgers from showing interest in acquiring the young shortstop. After the top tier of free agent shortstops, Andrelton Simmons and Elvis Andrus are the best options. The Dodgers may not be able to bring Trea Turner back and Gavin Lux hasn’t solidified himself as a starter.
Will the Brewers consider trading away Adames?
The Brewers have long looked to get the most production out of a team for the money spent. Clearing space on their payroll not only achieves that, but also allows for greater flexibility in re-signing their core players. Adames is a premier, young shortstop with a career 15.5 WAR in five seasons. Again, as the free agent pool shrinks, many teams will check on the availability of Adames. The question is if Adames is available, and in that case, how much it will cost teams to trade for him?
The Brewers haven’t indicated any movement or conversations involving Adames at this moment. However, the Hunter Renfroe trade materialized quickly, and the Brewers might be waiting for the correct offer. Given his recent discussions with the front office and his attitude towards the team, keeping Adames should be a priority for Milwaukee.
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