As the offseason kicks off, all eyes are on Atlanta Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos as he begins his search for ways to improve the team’s roster. One spot many fans and analysts have pointed to for potential improvement is shortstop.
Orlando Arcia, who manned the position in 2024, isn’t set to make much next season, making it relatively easy for the Braves to find an upgrade if one becomes available. And now, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, a name that would represent a huge boost to the Braves lineup has emerged—Willy Adames.
Could Willy Adames Be Headed to Atlanta?
At 29 years old, Adames just wrapped up a career year with the Milwaukee Brewers, posting a .251/.331/.462 slash line, along with setting career-highs in home runs (32), RBIs (112), and stolen bases (21). His offensive production was nothing short of impressive, with a 119 wRC+ and a 4.8 fWAR per Fangraphs.
While his defense might be a slight downgrade from Arcia, it’s still solid enough to not raise major concerns—Adames finished 2024 with 1 Out Above Average (OAA) and landed in the 50th percentile in fielding run value according to Baseball Savant.
But where Adames truly stands out is at the plate. Ranking in the 82nd percentile in barrel rate and 80th percentile in walk rate, his bat could bring a much-needed boost to the Braves’ offense, which has occasionally struggled with plate discipline.
In fact, Adames’ patience and power might be exactly what Atlanta needs to lengthen its lineup. Anthopoulos has reportedly had his eye on Adames in the past, and after his monster season, the fit seems even more appealing.
The Big Question: Can the Braves Afford Him?
As exciting as the prospect of Adames in Atlanta might be, the biggest question is whether he fits into the Braves’ budget. Anthopoulos is known for his careful approach to contracts, especially when it comes to deals that extend past a player’s prime. Adames, who ranks eighth on MLB.com’s list of top 2025 free agents and as the top shortstop available, will likely command a hefty price tag. After his standout year with Milwaukee, Adames could easily seek an average annual value (AAV) of around $20 million.
While the Braves have shown they’re willing to spend, landing Adames might limit their ability to address other needs. The free agent shortstop market is thin this offseason, making Adames one of the most sought-after players. This could drive up his asking price, and with a potential bidding war, Anthopoulos will need to weigh whether committing to Adames leaves enough room to fill other gaps in the roster.
What About Orlando Arcia?
The Braves’ decision to move on from Dansby Swanson and replace him with Orlando Arcia initially seemed brilliant. Arcia, earning less than 10% of Swanson’s salary, seemed like he truly came into his own almost out the gates. He even made his first All-Star appearance. However, his performance regressed by the end of the 2023 season.
By 2024, Arcia returned to the player he’d been throughout his career. He is a solid defender with a below-average bat, better suited as a backup infielder than a full-time starter. While Arcia filled a role, his offensive struggles exposed a clear need for the Braves. With championship aspirations, they can’t afford to have a weak link at shortstop.
The Braves need to make an upgrade this offseason, finding someone who can provide both defensive stability and more consistent offensive production. Arcia’s contributions were valuable, but it’s time for a team eyeing another World Series run to seek a higher level of talent.
What’s Next for Atlanta?
It’s unlikely that Adames will sign early in the offseason, given his status as the premier shortstop on the market. Teams, including the Braves, will carefully evaluate their options, and Adames will likely be holding out for the best deal. For now, Braves fans can only hope that Anthopoulos works his magic and finds a way to bring one of the league’s most productive shortstops to Atlanta without breaking the bank. But one thing’s for sure—if Adames does end up in a Braves uniform, the lineup will be even more formidable in 2025.
