The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to fend off the rival San Diego Padres in the National League Division Series as they aim for a World Series title.
To achieve this, they’re counting on a roster filled with stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman. However, after facing challenges in securing a key defensive position throughout the year, Erik Beaston of Bleacher Report anticipates that the Dodgers will target a top free agent during the winter.
“los is among the best shortstops in baseball and is expected to command a lucrative contract in free agency,” says Beaston. “Prediction: Adames signs a substantial deal with the Dodgers.”
After starting the season with Gavin Lux as their projected shortstop, the Dodgers experimented with various options amid defensive struggles. They even tried Mookie Betts at shortstop full-time before shifting him back to the outfield, ultimately settling on Miguel Rojas for the position.
However, Adames would represent a significant upgrade, especially offensively. The 29-year-old has a season line of .251/.331/.462, with 32 home runs and 21 steals.
As he enters free agency before turning 30 and plays a premier defensive position, Adames is expected to secure a substantial long-term deal. According to Steve Adams and Anthony Franco of MLB Trade Rumors, “As he approaches his 29th birthday, Adames has pulled ahead of Ha-Seong Kim as the top shortstop in this class. He should exceed nine figures and is a strong candidate for a six- or seven-year deal worth $150MM or more.”
While the Dodgers already have one of the highest payrolls in baseball with several long-term contracts, Adames fits a crucial need so well that even a nine-figure price tag may not deter them.
“Typically, when the Dodgers want someone, they make it happen,” Beaston added. “With the No. 1 seed in the National League moving Mookie Betts back to right field, the team needs a reliable everyday shortstop, and Adames is that player.”
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