Payroll has been an important factor in the Milwaukee Brewers’ decisions throughout recent history. After all, their decision to trade Josh Hader at the deadline, and effectively torpedo their chances of reaching the postseason, was based more on the financial aspect of the equation than anything else.
Those deals to free up payroll have continued this offseason. Hunter Renfroe was traded in a clear salary dump. Brad Boxberger’s option was declined and Brent Suter was placed on waivers to free up more space. But the conversation could be different with Willy Adames.
Milwaukee Brewers hoping to keep Willy Adames around
Adames had told Adam McCalvy of MLB.com that there have been conversations between he and the Brewers about a long term extension. It is something that Adames is open to, saying that “We’ve had conversations about that, and I let them know that obviously I want to stay.”
He already made his mark on the Brewers record books. His 31 homers last season set a team record for the most home runs by a shortstop in franchise history. He continued to cement his place as one of the better all around options at the position, posting a 112 OPS+ while saving nine runs defensively. It is understandable as to why the Brewers would want to keep him around.
That is especially the case given the expected barren landscape at the position in the coming years. Adames could be one of the top shortstops on the market when he would be eligible for free agency during the 2024-25 offseason.
It all comes back to how much the Brewers are willing to spend. They have opened the Christian Yelich, Freddy Peralta, and Aaron Ashby in the recent past. Adames might end up costing more than Yelich, but the Brewers may not have another option. Making that extension happen could be in their best interests.
The Milwaukee Brewers and Willy Adames have begun discussions on an extension. It is a deal that the Brewers need to get done soon.