Top Free Agent Shortstop: Brewers’ Willy Adames’ Bounceback 2024 Season
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Impact Beyond the Field
Adames’ leadership extends beyond his on-field performance. He mentors young players like rookie Joey Ortiz and second-year player Brice Turang. Ortiz, likely the shortstop of the future for Milwaukee, has thrived alongside Adames. Turang, having an All-Star caliber season at second base, has developed a strong middle infield duo with Adames. His importance to the Brewers goes beyond his stats, making him essential for their success both now and in the future.
Brewers 2024 Futures Odds at FanDuel
World Series Winner: +3000
NLCS Winner: +1200
NL Central Winner: -290
Make Playoffs: -750
Win 90+ Reg. Season Games: -114
Willy Adames: All-Star Season at the Perfect Time
Willy Adames is having an All-Star-caliber season, just in time for his impending free agency. As one of the top shortstops in the National League, Adames has emerged as a standout player this year. With his contract ending soon, he’s proving to be an under-appreciated free agent. While big names like Juan Soto and Pete Alonso dominate free agency discussions, Adames’ impressive performance ensures he deserves recognition. Currently, he ranks 16th in MLB in fWAR (2.9), making him a key player to watch.
Rising Stats and Improved Approach
Adames has shown significant improvement in his game this season. He’s walking at a career-high rate of 12.1% and has reduced his strikeout rate by 5%. Despite these changes, he maintains his high-quality contact, which fans have come to expect. His performance with runners in scoring position is notable, slashing .263/.395/.568 for a .963 OPS. In high leverage situations, Adames boasts an incredible 1.100 OPS and a 212 wRC+. His consistency and clutch hitting have made him a more well-rounded hitter this season.
For all your MLB deep dives check out our friends at Just Baseball.
Bouncing Back Strong
In 2023, Adames struggled with a .217 batting average and a 94 wRC+, his worst offensive season. Despite this, he hit 24 homers and drove in 80 runs. His defensive prowess kept him valuable, ranking in the 99th percentile in Outs Above Average. This season, Adames has bounced back, producing both offensively and defensively, making him one of the Brewers' most impactful players. His resurgence has solidified his place as a top shortstop in the upcoming free-agent market.
Swing for the Fences with SportsGrid’s free daily MLB Game Picks and MLB Prop Picks.
Download the SportsGrid App
Stay Ahead of the Game and Elevate Your Sports Betting Experience with SportsGrid. Download the SportsGrid App from the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Top Shortstop in Free Agency
Assuming Ha-Seong Kim opts out of his contract, Adames and Kim will be the top shortstops in the free agent market. Adames has outperformed Kim in several metrics this season. Beyond them, the shortstop market is thin. Adames' strong play, combined with his defensive skills, sets him apart. He ranks in the 97th percentile in Outs Above Average, showcasing his range and arm strength. His consistent power production and improved approach make him a valuable free agent.
Milwaukee’s Key Player
Since joining the Brewers in May 2021, Adames has been one of their most valuable players, with 13.7 fWAR. He leads the team in RBIs (290), homers (88), and doubles (104). This season, Adames is a major reason why the Brewers lead the NL Central. He tops the team in homers (13), RBIs (54), and ISO (.191), while also contributing with 10 steals. His leadership and performance have been crucial to the Brewers' success, making him indispensable.
Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Impact Beyond the Field
Adames’ leadership extends beyond his on-field performance. He mentors young players like rookie Joey Ortiz and second-year player Brice Turang. Ortiz, likely the shortstop of the future for Milwaukee, has thrived alongside Adames. Turang, having an All-Star caliber season at second base, has developed a strong middle infield duo with Adames. His importance to the Brewers goes beyond his stats, making him essential for their success both now and in the future.
Brewers 2024 Futures Odds at FanDuel
World Series Winner: +3000
NLCS Winner: +1200
NL Central Winner: -290
Make Playoffs: -750
Win 90+ Reg. Season Games: -114
Willy Adames: All-Star Season at the Perfect Time
Willy Adames is having an All-Star-caliber season, just in time for his impending free agency. As one of the top shortstops in the National League, Adames has emerged as a standout player this year. With his contract ending soon, he’s proving to be an under-appreciated free agent. While big names like Juan Soto and Pete Alonso dominate free agency discussions, Adames’ impressive performance ensures he deserves recognition. Currently, he ranks 16th in MLB in fWAR (2.9), making him a key player to watch.
