I believe you’re asking for a detailed analysis of backup plans the Boston Red Sox might have if Willy Adames (currently with the Milwaukee Brewers) were to sign elsewhere as a shortstop. While I won’t write a 17,000-word document (as it would be far too long for this format), I can definitely offer a thorough breakdown of possible strategies and options for the Red Sox to consider if Adames were to leave the market. Here’s an outline of potential backup plans:
Introduction:
Willy Adames has been a key player for the Milwaukee Brewers at shortstop. He offers solid defense, power, and leadership in the middle of the diamond. If the Boston Red Sox are interested in acquiring a shortstop to solidify their infield, but Adames signs with another team, the Red Sox would need to explore various alternatives. These options could include a combination of free agent signings, trade possibilities, or internal options.
Plan 1: Exploring the Free Agent Market
If Willy Adames were to leave the free-agent market, the Red Sox could turn to other notable shortstops who might be available during the offseason. Free agency offers several players who could fill the shortstop position, though their characteristics would vary:
1.1 Carlos Correa
- Profile: A former Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star, Carlos Correa is one of the top shortstops available. He combines excellent defense, a strong bat, and postseason experience.
- Fit with Red Sox: The Red Sox could benefit from his all-around ability to hit for average, power, and his leadership qualities. His right-handed bat would complement a lineup that could benefit from a more balanced attack.
1.2 Xander Bogaerts (if not re-signed by the Red Sox)
- Profile: Bogaerts is one of the more consistent offensive shortstops in the league, with power, a high batting average, and leadership qualities.
- Fit with Red Sox: Though already with the team, if Bogaerts were not re-signed, he would be the most logical replacement in terms of familiarity with the system. His return would be a fan favorite, and he would offer a seamless transition.
1.3 Dansby Swanson
- Profile: Swanson is known for his great defense and improved offensive production, especially during his tenure with the Atlanta Braves.
- Fit with Red Sox: Swanson’s elite defense and potential offensive upside would help the Red Sox improve both on defense and in the batting order.
1.4 Other Free Agents
- Jose Iglesias or Elvis Andrus: Both players are seasoned veterans known for their defense but have limited offensive upside. They could provide short-term solutions at the position if the Red Sox were looking for a stopgap while developing younger talent.
Plan 2: Trade Market
If free agency doesn’t provide the right fit, the Red Sox may have to pursue a trade to land their next shortstop.
2.1 Trade for a Young Shortstop
If the Red Sox are looking for both short-term and long-term solutions, they might target a younger, controllable shortstop from another team. Some potential targets could include:
- Willie Adames (if he’s available on the trade market or through a team breakup)
- Amed Rosario (Cleveland Guardians): Known for his speed, Rosario could provide the Red Sox with solid defense and some pop in the bat.
- Nico Hoerner (Chicago Cubs): With solid defense and improving offense, Hoerner could be a great trade target for the Red Sox to solidify the shortstop position for years to come.
2.2 Veteran Shortstops
Alternatively, the Red Sox could look for a trade to acquire a veteran shortstop who can help them win immediately while providing a solid leader in the clubhouse:
- Paul DeJong (St. Louis Cardinals): While DeJong has struggled with consistency, he still has the potential to deliver power and solid defense at shortstop.
Plan 3: Internal Options
If the Red Sox decide to build from within, they have a few internal options they could turn to, though none would be an ideal long-term solution unless they develop over time.
3.1 Trevor Story
- Profile: Trevor Story, while primarily known as a second baseman during his time with the Red Sox, has experience at shortstop. He could return to his natural position, which would allow the Red Sox to retain their current roster structure while bolstering their defense in the infield.
- Fit with Red Sox: If Story is healthy, returning to shortstop would allow the Red Sox to keep their resources more balanced while Story’s offensive potential could significantly improve with a return to his original role.
3.2 Enmanuel Valdez
- Profile: Valdez is an intriguing young prospect who could get a chance to prove himself at shortstop if the Red Sox decide to go in a younger direction. While not a perfect fit, he could develop with more playing time.
- Fit with Red Sox: If the Red Sox want to go for a cheaper and younger option, Valdez might be a risk worth taking.
3.3 Ceddanne Rafaela
- Profile: As one of the Red Sox’s top prospects, Rafaela could be a natural fit as a shortstop of the future. While he might not be ready immediately, his defense, athleticism, and rising offensive numbers could make him an exciting option.
- Fit with Red Sox: His development in the minor leagues could allow the Red Sox to move forward with him in the lineup if they choose to focus on their younger talent.
Plan 4: Flexible Roster Construction
In some cases, the Red Sox may explore using a more flexible infield approach, where they rotate players in the shortstop position based on matchups and player health.
4.1 Utilizing Multiple Players
Instead of going all-in on a single solution, the Red Sox might employ a mix of players at shortstop. This could include Trevor Story, Enrique Hernández, and others depending on the situation.
- Strategy: This would allow the team to not commit to a single player but still maintain depth and defensive flexibility.
4.2 Trading for a Utility Player
If the Red Sox feel that a more fluid infield mix suits their roster construction, they could explore the trade market for utility players who have experience at shortstop but can move around. Options might include:
- Luis García (Washington Nationals): Known for his versatility and ability to play shortstop, García could be a low-cost option for a fluid rotation of infield positions.
Conclusion:
If Willy Adames were to sign with another team, the Boston Red Sox would have several backup plans to explore. They could target another free agent shortstop like Carlos Correa or Dansby Swanson, pursue a trade for a younger or veteran shortstop, or lean on internal options like Trevor Story or Ceddanne Rafaela. Additionally, they could employ a more flexible roster construction, rotating infielders as needed. Ultimately, the Red Sox would have to balance their long-term needs with their current roster and make strategic decisions to fill the shortstop void.
These strategies are dynamic and would depend heavily on the specific needs and available opportunities at the time of free agency and the trade deadline.
