As the 2024 MLB offseason begins to unfold, the Atlanta Braves are keeping a close eye on potential roster upgrades for the coming season. One player who has surfaced as a target in trade rumors is Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Willy Adames. However, the Braves may not have the inside track on acquiring Adames, as reports have surfaced indicating that one of their divisional rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, already has a massive offer on the table for the talented infielder.
Willy Adames has been one of the more consistent shortstops in Major League Baseball over the past few seasons. Known for his power, strong defense, and leadership qualities, Adames has been a cornerstone for the Brewers since they acquired him in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2021. In 2024, Adames put together a solid season, with 31 home runs, 83 RBIs, and a respectable .238 batting average. While he is not an elite hitter in terms of batting average, his power potential and ability to provide stability at a key defensive position make him a highly sought-after commodity in the market.
For the Phillies, who are coming off another successful postseason run, bolstering their infield is a priority. Philadelphia has been in the market for an upgrade at shortstop since the departure of Jean Segura, and while Bryson Stott showed promise in 2024, adding a veteran presence like Adames would solidify the infield. Adames’ ability to anchor the shortstop position would allow the Phillies to further strengthen an already potent lineup, particularly in a division where the Braves are consistently among the best teams in the league.
The Milwaukee Brewers are in a unique situation this offseason. While the team is still competitive, they are also facing tough decisions regarding their payroll flexibility and long-term strategy. Adames is under contract through the 2025 season, which means the Brewers are not under immediate pressure to trade him. However, Milwaukee has shown a willingness to move key players in the past when it fits their rebuild or retooling strategy. Given Adames’ value on the trade market, the Brewers could opt to deal him in exchange for young, controllable talent to fuel their future.
For the Braves, the situation is even more complicated. While their primary focus remains on acquiring starting pitching to bolster a rotation that fell short in the postseason, adding a player like Adames would provide a dynamic upgrade at shortstop. With Orlando Arcia solidifying himself as a reliable shortstop option in 2024, Atlanta might not prioritize the position as much as other areas. However, the Braves do have the resources to make a competitive offer for Adames, should they decide to pursue him aggressively.
The Massive Offer from the Phillies
As of now, the Phillies have reportedly made a “massive” offer to the Brewers for Willy Adames, signaling their serious intent to land the shortstop. While specific details of the offer remain under wraps, it is understood that the package includes a combination of top-tier prospects and potentially some major league-ready talent. With the Phillies possessing a strong farm system and several high-value players who could be part of a trade, the Brewers are reportedly considering this proposal seriously.
The Braves, on the other hand, have been more hesitant to move big prospects, especially after their success in recent seasons building a sustainable, homegrown core. Atlanta’s farm system is still regarded as one of the best in baseball, but the team’s front office may be more focused on using those prospects to address pitching needs, rather than acquiring another position player.
If the Phillies are successful in acquiring Adames, it could have significant implications for the Braves, particularly within the National League East. The addition of Adames would further strengthen a lineup that already boasts one of the best offensive trios in baseball with Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber. With a more potent offense and a strong pitching staff, the Phillies could become even more dangerous, making the competition within the division even fiercer.
On the other hand, if the Braves miss out on Adames, they will likely turn their attention to other trade or free-agent options to improve their shortstop depth or target other positions of need. The Braves have an enviable amount of flexibility and could pivot to other areas of the roster, including pitching, which is likely to be their main priority.
In the end, while the Braves have the resources to make a strong bid for Willy Adames, their divisional rivals in Philadelphia seem to be making a strong push to acquire the talented shortstop. With a massive offer already on the table, it will be interesting to see if the Brewers decide to pull the trigger on a deal that could shake up the NL East race for years to come.
