5 2025 free agents Yankees should already be focused on

Willy Adames

Adames has always been the Dodgers' middle infield Plan A, ever since he changed hands from the Rays to the Brew Crew. Milwaukee has held onto him every time LA's made a pass, but this winter/summer, the Dodgers could finally get lucky as the Cream City's turmoil crests.

But ... again ... if Adames makes it to next winter without an financial security, the Yankees should come calling (especially after his display of Derek Jeter adoration at September's Old-Timers' Day).

Adames is coming off a down year, his first since leaving the artificial lights of the Trop. Therefore, he'd probably prefer not to be dealt at his lowest value, though he doesn't exactly have much say in the matter.

If the 28-year-old finds himself below league average offensively again (95 OPS+, 24 homers, 3.0 bWAR in 2023), he won't command nearly the payday his talent probably merits. But if he can return to the 2021 form he captured after being traded to Milwaukee (137 OPS+ in 99 games), he'll be viewed as a savior for a team that sat out the shortstop market in recent free agency cycles.

Perhaps a team that was ... forced to trade Oswald Peraza after being unable to find a playing time window for him? Just spitballing here. Adames can't wear No. 2, but he can certainly complete the jump throw.