The Los Angeles Dodgers have several important decisions to make this winter as they gear to defend their World Series title next season.
A pressing issue for the Dodgers is whether they'll return six-time Gold Glove defender Mookie Betts to the infield or keep him in the outfield while utility man Tommy Edman fills the voids.
However, a better solution could be on the horizon if the Dodgers can convince one of the most talented players available to join them this offseason.
"However, bringing in the former (Milwaukee) Brewer (Willy Adames) would allow them to keep Betts in the outfield, where they are already trying to figure out how to replace/re-sign Teoscar Hernández and where they would need multiple solutions if they move Betts," Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller wrote Wednesday when discussing where free agents who rejected qualifying offers could land this offseason. "Contract Prediction: 7 years, $189 million to the Los Angeles Dodgers."
Adames has batted .248 with 327 extra-base hits including 150 home runs, 472 RBIs and a .766 OPS throughout his seven-season career, during which he played for the Tampa Bay Rays and Brewers.
"If the Dodgers are on the fence in any way, though, the (San Francisco) Giants could pounce," Miller continued. "They've already said they want to bring in a shortstop this offseason, and goodness knows they are overdue for landing a big fish in free agency. My gut says the Dodgers make it happen but the Giants wouldn't be surprising in the least."
The Dodgers would benefit from having an established shortstop, especially one who has logged at least 24 home runs in a season for four consecutive years. Signing Adames won't be cheap but doing so will put Los Angeles in an excellent position to chase its tenth World Series title in 2025.
