The Boston Red Sox are reportedly searching for a shortstop at the trade deadline, and Willy Adames of the San Francisco Giants may make sense as a target.
The Red Sox reportedly called the Houston Astros about trading for Jeremy Peña, but were shut down. However, that does indicate that they are not just looking at a rental shortstop or a fringe option. They are okay going after a big name. The Giants signed Adames to a seven-year, $182 million deal before the 2025 season, but the team has struggled the last two years. They are once again going to be sellers at the deadline and are reportedly open to trying to dump some of their bigger contracts.
Last year, Adames became the first Giants player since Barry Bonds in 2004 to hit 30 homers. His batting average since joining the Giants is just .225, but Oracle Park is not an easy place to hit. He hit .244 in Milwaukee and had a .780 OPS in four seasons there.
This year, he is hitting .241 with a .790 OPS away from San Francisco, so perhaps all he needs is a change of scenery and a more hitter-friendly environment to bring his average back up. The power is still there, and he could provide a huge boost to the Red Sox offense.
If the Red Sox really want a shortstop, the Giants may be the easiest team to do business with. They may be desperate to move Adames. He is regarded as one of the best clubhouse guys in baseball and is a strong change of scenery candidate.
The righty pulls the ball in the air a ton, and could be a perfect pairing with the Green Monster at Fenway Park. His contract will be a hurdle to clear, but if the Red Sox are serious about an upgrade at shortstop, Adames could provide it. CJ Abrams and Zach Neto are also options.