As the Boston Red Sox and other teams aggressively pursue generational talent Juan Soto, the organization is simultaneously exploring alternative options in case they fall short of acquiring the prized free agent this offseason.
However, Red Sox President Sam Kennedy has emphasized the team’s “extreme urgency” to contend for the AL East title in 2025 and make a deep playoff push. This sense of urgency suggests that even if the Red Sox succeed in signing Soto, they may still seek additional roster reinforcements.
A prominent Red Sox news account, Boston Strong, reported on Thursday that the team recently had a “productive” meeting with Willy Adames, the former Milwaukee Brewers shortstop and one of the offseason’s most sought-after free agents outside of Soto.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Red Sox have demonstrated “strong interest” in the 29-year-old Dominican Republic native. Adames’ potential contract could exceed $230 million, with projections ranging from $211 million over seven years to $231 million for eight, as per Baseball Trade Values.
Adames, who posted a career-high 32 home runs in 2024, may need to switch positions if he joins Boston, where Trevor Story holds shortstop.
Adames is reportedly open to moving to third base, which could displace Rafael Devers to first base or a designated hitter role.
