The Milwaukee Brewers faced a significant loss this offseason when star shortstop Willy Adames departed for the San Francisco Giants on a massive seven-year, $182 million contract. Adames had become an integral part of the team’s culture and success since arriving via trade in 2021. His charismatic personality and power-hitting abilities made him a fan favorite, and his departure leaves a major void both in the clubhouse and on the field.
In 2024, Adames delivered an outstanding offensive performance, slashing .251/.331/.462 with 32 home runs, 112 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases. His historic season set franchise records for a shortstop in both home runs and RBIs, making his production difficult to replace. While the Brewers may be able to adjust defensively, filling the offensive gap left by Adames will be a significant challenge.
Brewers owner Mark Attanasio recently hinted at how the team plans to address their shortstop vacancy. In an interview with MLB insider Adam McCalvy, Attanasio suggested that Joey Ortiz will shift from third base to shortstop. Ortiz, who was originally developed as a shortstop in the Baltimore Orioles’ minor league system, has experience at the position and offers solid defensive skills.
Attanasio also addressed the team’s quiet approach in free agency, stating that he didn’t see any major needs to address externally. “There really weren’t any spots to fill,” Attanasio explained. “Maybe third base, but we want to give Tyler Black a shot and Ollie Dunn, and [Joey] Ortiz can slide over.” This suggests the Brewers are committed to relying on internal options rather than seeking external reinforcements.
Ortiz played in 142 games last season, hitting .239/.329/.398 with 11 home runs, 60 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases. While his numbers don’t match Adames’ offensive output, he excelled defensively at third base, where many felt he was overlooked for Gold Glove recognition. Moving Ortiz to shortstop may help maintain defensive stability, but it does little to solve the offensive dilemma.
Without Adames’ power bat in the lineup, the Brewers will need other players to step up. One key factor could be a healthy Christian Yelich. The former MVP had a strong 2024 campaign before undergoing back surgery, finishing with a .315/.406/.504 slash line, 11 home runs, 42 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases in just 75 games. If he can stay healthy, he could help bridge the gap left by Adames.
Another potential breakout star is young outfielder Jackson Chourio. At just 20 years old, Chourio became the youngest player in MLB history to post a 20-20 season, hitting .275/.327/.464 with 21 home runs, 79 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases. As he continues to develop, he could provide the offensive boost Milwaukee needs.
Ultimately, while the Brewers have promising internal options, replacing Adames’ production is no easy task. The team will need several players to elevate their performance to compensate for his absence. Whether that gamble pays off remains to be seen.
