Willy Adames versus Carlos Correa: Who would be the better choice for the next five years? The San Francisco Giants have made a significant move by signing shortstop Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million contract, marking the largest deal in franchise history. This acquisition comes after the team’s earlier failed attempt to secure Carlos Correa, whose 13-year, $350 million agreement fell through due to medical concerns.
As the Giants pivot towards Adames, they find themselves in a unique position. While Correa is coming off an All-Star season with the Minnesota Twins, he faces trade rumors despite having four years remaining on his contract. Conversely, Adames, at 29, is fresh off a standout year with the Milwaukee Brewers, showcasing his potential as a reliable player.
Money being equal, who would you rather have for the next five years, Willy Adames or Carlos Correa?
Rowan Kavner: Choosing between Adames and Correa is challenging. Adames has proven durability and power, but Correa’s accolades, including being a three-time All-Star and a former Rookie of the Year, give him the edge in potential. Correa’s recent performance, with a .905 OPS, suggests he could be an MVP candidate when healthy, although his injury history raises concerns.
Adames, on the other hand, is a safer bet for consistent playing time. He has established himself as an above-average player, recently achieving career highs in various offensive categories. However, his strikeout rates limit his offensive upside. While Adames recorded a wRC+ of 126 in 2020, Correa has maintained an average of 127 throughout his career.
Correa’s 2023 season was a mixed bag; he demonstrated his capabilities by slashing .310/.388/.517 but also missed significant time due to plantar fasciitis. In contrast, Adames had a stellar season, finishing in the top 10 of MVP voting and setting personal bests in hits, home runs, and stolen bases, proving his value even in fewer games.
In a recent discussion, it was highlighted that Adames fits the Giants’ needs perfectly, especially regarding defense and offensive impact. The deal he received aligns with expectations for a player of his caliber. However, if forced to choose, the preference may lean towards Correa due to his higher potential rewards despite the inherent risks.
Deesha Thosar: Adames is the clear choice for me. His impressive 161 games in 2024 showcase his durability, especially when compared to Correa’s struggles with injuries. The Giants’ previous issues with Correa’s medical evaluations underscore the importance of Adames’ health. Buster Posey, now leading the front office, likely values Adames’ ability to stay on the field, a trait that is increasingly rare in modern baseball.
For Posey, establishing a reliable roster is paramount. Adames not only brings leadership qualities from his time in Milwaukee but also offers consistent offensive production at a key position. While age-related decline is a concern for any shortstop, Adames has shown he can perform well at Oracle Park, boasting a .321 batting average and .827 OPS in his limited appearances there. His ability to draw walks may help mitigate any power concerns in the pitcher-friendly environment.
