The team that ended the Braves six straight division title streak last season is looking to go all in this offseason. Atlanta's biggest rival is rumored to has a ton of motivation to shake up their already loaded roster in hopes of building a championship contender.
The Philadelphia Phillies have been linked to a ton of free agent talent this winter, even reportedly checking in on the Juan Soto sweepstakes. Unfortunately, the Phillies are now generating buzz around one of the top position players the Braves have been linked to this offseason.
Phillies looking to boost their infield by possibly adding Willy Adames
Bob Nightengale of USA Today went through a ton of different whispers he's come across in recent days in his article published yesterday. One point he emphasized was the desire the Phillies have to lengthen their lineup, where he mentions the possibility of adding free agent Willy Adames.
Philadelphia has been rumored to be shopping third baseman Alec Bohm (who has still yet to touch home plate) after the former number three overall pick struggled throughout most of the second half in 2024. Earlier this offseason the Phillies were linked to third baseman Alex Bregman who is a free agent at the age of 30.
However, it's reported that Bregman is seeking a mega deal in the $200 million range. That could motivate the Phillies to pivot to a more affordable Adames, and transition him into the third base role with Trea Turner still holding down shortstop.
This would obviously be a big blow as not only would it make the Braves biggest rival a much better team, but it would also take away one of Atlanta's top targets this winter. Should Adames land in Philly, the Braves wouldn't have many free agent shortstop options (outside of a healthy Ha Seong-Kim) that are immediate upgrades over Orlando Arcia. Considering the growing market for Adames, it seems more and more likely the Braves will add a significant bat via signing an outfielder instead.