The Milwaukee Brewers experienced a devastating end to their season. They faced the New York Mets in a critical Game 3 of the NL Wild Card round, holding a 2-0 lead as they entered the top of the ninth in this win-or-go-home matchup. However, Pete Alonso hit a home run off Brewers’ closer Devin Williams, propelling the Mets into the NLDS and sending Milwaukee home in tears.
As they head into the offseason, the Brewers will have to deal with the impending unrestricted free agency of one of their top players.
Willy Adames has been a standout for the Brewers, excelling both defensively as a shortstop and offensively as one of the best hitters at his position. It’s clear he will attract significant interest this offseason.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as one of the teams most frequently linked to Adames.
Dodgers’ case to sign Willy Adames grows as Milwaukee is bounced in Wild Card round
The Los Angeles Dodgers have a need at shortstop, especially as they plan to move superstar Mookie Betts to another position. They’ve struggled with this position for much of the year following Betts’ broken hand.
One major advantage the Dodgers offer over the Brewers is the chance to compete for a championship. While the Brewers are a solid team, the Dodgers are on a different level. Adding Adames would further strengthen their roster.
As Milwaukee and Adames watch the Dodgers face off against the San Diego Padres from home, the prospect of winning could be a significant factor in free agency. This situation, combined with the likelihood of a lucrative contract from the Dodgers, makes them an appealing option.
I predict that Willy Adames will end up with the Dodgers this offseason. I previously stated:
“He’s going to get a big payday this offseason. The Brewers could pay him, but they’ve also had the chance to extend him and haven’t taken it. Teams like the Padres, Mets, Yankees, and Blue Jays all have established shortstops, so it seems to come down to the Red Sox and Dodgers for Adames.”
“My prediction is that the Los Angeles Dodgers will be the ones to sign Adames this offseason. You didn’t think we could discuss top free agents without mentioning the Dodgers, did you?”
It will be interesting to see if the Brewers can do enough to retain Adames or if they will watch him secure a significant contract elsewhere. As we’ve seen in recent years, the Dodgers can never be counted out when it comes to signing elite free agents.
