By Kristie Ackert | Athlon Sports | Updated April 13, 2025, 11:07 AM
In a dramatic turn that has left the baseball world stunned, Gold Glove shortstop Willy Adames has reversed his commitment to the San Francisco Giants and will instead sign with the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers.
Adames had previously agreed to a seven-year, $182 million deal with San Francisco in December, a move that appeared to solidify the Giants’ infield for years to come. But after late-stage discussions with Rangers officials — including a personal pitch from manager Bruce Bochy — Adames made the surprising decision to walk away from the Giants and head to Arlington.
“I have nothing but respect for the Giants and everything they offered,” Adames said. “But when the Rangers came into the picture late, something just clicked. The opportunity to join a winning culture and a team that’s built to compete right now — that was something I couldn’t pass up.”
The Rangers, fresh off a championship season, had been relatively quiet this offseason, but insiders say they had been monitoring Adames closely and saw an opening as questions lingered over the Giants’ ability to finalize the deal. Texas pounced, offering not only a competitive package but the chance for Adames to join a stacked roster that includes Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Adolis García.
“What stood out was their vision,” Adames explained. “They weren’t just talking about winning — they’ve done it. And they see me as a piece that can help keep it going. That meant a lot.”
Rangers GM Chris Young called the signing a major addition to an already elite infield.
“Willy brings championship-level defense, energy, and production,” Young said. “We’re thrilled to add a player of his caliber to this clubhouse.”
The Giants, meanwhile, are left scrambling for answers after what they believed was a done deal unraveled just months before Opening Day. Adames’ sudden change of heart marks the second major free-agent reversal for the team in recent years, recalling their near-signing of Carlos Correa in 2022.
Adames, a fiery competitor and lifelong fan of Derek Jeter, said the final decision came down to fit and ambition.
“Texas is where I see myself competing for a title,” he said. “I didn’t expect this when free agency started, but I’m exactly where I want to be.”
Related: Giants Search for Backup Plan After Adames’ Stunning Departure
Related: Rangers Reload, Eye Repeat with Gold Glove Shortstop Signing
© 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved. Original story published April 13, 2025.
