Why did the Giants give Willy Adames a huge contract?

In a headline-grabbing move, the San Francisco Giants have signed Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million contract, reshaping their roster with one of the most exciting infielders in baseball today. This monumental signing, reported by Jeff Passan, awaits finalization pending a physical examination. At 29 years old, Adames brings a dynamic mix of power, athleticism, and consistency, positioning him as a cornerstone of the Giants’ future.

A Career Marked by Power and Potential

Adames has been a force to be reckoned with since his MLB debut in 2018 with the Tampa Bay Rays. Over seven seasons, he has solidified his reputation as a power hitter, boasting:

• A career .248/.322/.444 slash line
• 150 home runs across stints with the Rays and Brewers
• A consistent ability to surpass the 20-home-run plateau in full 162-game seasons

In the past three years, Adames has reached 30+ home runs twice, showcasing his growth as a top-tier offensive player. His 2024 campaign, however, was truly transformative, featuring:

• 32 home runs
• 112 RBIs
• 21 stolen bases, more than double his previous career high

These career-best numbers elevated Adames beyond “solid performer” status, making him a critical acquisition for the Giants.

2024: A Breakout Year for Adames

Adames’ standout 2024 season wasn’t just about home runs and RBIs. His all-around game reached new heights, as evidenced by advanced metrics:

• A 12% barrel rate, ranking in the top 81% of MLB hitters
• An expected slugging percentage (xSLG) of .462 (82nd percentile)
• A walk rate of 10.8%, demonstrating improved plate discipline (top 80%)
• A hard-hit rate exceeding 40%, underscoring his raw power

These metrics confirm that Adames’ success in 2024 was no fluke—it was a culmination of skill, discipline, and athletic growth.

The Challenge of Consistency

While Adames’ 2024 performance was stellar, it highlights a key concern: consistency. His 2023 season with the Brewers was a stark contrast, as he struggled with:

• A .217 batting average
• A .717 OPS, his lowest over a full season

This drop in performance raises questions about Adames’ ability to sustain elite numbers year-over-year. Before 2024, his offensive contributions were solid but not exceptional, with a career-high OPS of .818 in 2021.

One significant factor contributing to this inconsistency is Adames’ high strikeout rate. Despite his power, he struggles with contact, as shown by:

• A career strikeout rate that limits his batting average
• A 29.5% whiff rate in 2024, indicating challenges with making consistent contact

These statistics suggest that while Adames has tremendous upside, his production may fluctuate, especially in the challenging environments of MLB pitching.

Implications for the San Francisco Giants

Offensive Impact

Adames’ power-hitting potential is a significant upgrade for the Giants. His ability to drive in runs and hit for power will bolster their lineup, especially in clutch situations.

Defensive Contributions

Though primarily valued for his offense, Adames’ defense remains reliable. While his metrics dipped slightly in 2024, his presence will strengthen the Giants’ infield, particularly at shortstop.

Fan Excitement and Franchise Momentum

The signing of Adames signals the Giants’ commitment to building a competitive roster. This bold move is expected to energize fans and position the team as a serious contender in the coming years.

Fantasy Baseball Outlook

For fantasy managers, Adames’ 2024 performance makes him an attractive option in drafts. Key considerations include:

• Upside: 30+ home run potential with the ability to steal bases
• Risks: High strikeout rate and potential for regression
• Consistency: His 2023 struggles highlight volatility

Adames’ contributions to runs, RBIs, and home runs make him a strong pick, but fantasy managers should weigh the risk of streaky performance.

A Calculated Risk with High Rewards

The Giants’ investment in Willy Adames is as much a statement as it is a strategy. At $182 million over seven years, this contract places immense trust in his ability to anchor the infield and deliver offensively.

While there are risks tied to consistency and strikeouts, Adames’ power and potential make him a transformative player. Whether he replicates his 2024 brilliance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Giants have secured a dynamic talent capable of reshaping their future.