Willy Adames is proof Giants are playing checkers while Rays, Brewers are playing chess

Writer Nick San Miguel argues that the 2026 World Series matchup between the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays highlights organizational shortcomings of the San Francisco Giants. Both World Series teams previously managed Willy Adames without overextending financially, whereas San Francisco signed the shortstop to a massive seven-year, $182 million free agent deal after the 2024 season.

According to San Miguel, Tampa Bay and Milwaukee maximized Adames' value through trades and draft compensation before letting him leave. In contrast, the writer views the Giants as saddled with an expensive contract for a declining player, urging the franchise and president of baseball operations Buster Posey to learn from the smaller-market contenders.