San Francisco Giants shortstop Willy Adames has acknowledged that a lingering back issue has impacted his season, but he is not interested in using the injury as an explanation for the way he has played.

Ahead of Saturday night’s road game against the Seattle Mariners, Adames spoke candidly about his first half, admitting that his performance has fallen short of the standards he sets for himself on both offense and defense.

Adames is hitting .228 with 18 home runs, 44 RBIs and a .714 OPS in 95 games. And, he’s on pace for a career-high 23 errors.

Rather than deflecting responsibility, Adames openly accepted that he has not been at his best.

Speaking with Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, Adames said he has been honest with himself about the difficult season, acknowledging that he has struggled on both sides of the ball.

“You have to be really honest with yourself and I know I haven’t been my best on both sides,” Adames said.

He expressed hope that the second half will bring improved performances from both himself and the Giants as they pursue the type of finish they envisioned entering the season.

San Francisco began the second half with an impressive 7-0 victory over the Mariners on Friday, and Adames played a major role by hitting a grand slam.

Adames continued swinging the bat well on Saturday, adding another home run despite the Giants falling 4-3. He went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run on Monday’s 4-3 road loss against the Kansas City Royals. 

The All-Star break arrived at an important time for the veteran infielder.

The four-day pause allowed Adames an opportunity to rest after managing back discomfort throughout much of the season.

Although an MRI revealed no significant damage, the issue continues creating physical limitations that affect his daily preparation.

Adames, who hit 30 home runs last season despite batting .225 in 160 games, now requires treatment every day to loosen his back before he can fully prepare for games.

That recovery routine has reduced the amount of defensive work he is able to complete on the field.

Instead of spending additional time taking ground balls or refining his footwork, much of his preparation is dedicated to managing the discomfort and preventing further strain.

The situation has been particularly frustrating because the Giants employ veteran infield instructor Ron Washington, one of MLB’s most respected defensive coaches.

Adames would like to spend more time working alongside Washington, but repeated ground-ball sessions and extended periods in a deep defensive crouch have become difficult because of the lingering back issue.

As San Francisco continues the second half of the 2026 season, Adames hopes improved health will allow him to return to the level of performance the organization expected when it signed him.

Adames has built his reputation through competitiveness, accountability, and a relentless desire to improve. His willingness to accept responsibility rather than search for excuses reflects the type of leadership valued inside a clubhouse.

Even while managing physical discomfort, he continues preparing to contribute every day and remains committed to helping his team succeed.

Defensively, he has long been recognized for his instincts, quick reactions, and ability to make difficult plays look routine when healthy.

Offensively, his aggressive approach and confidence allow him to change a game with one swing while also providing energy throughout the lineup.

Teammates respect the professionalism he brings to the field, and coaches consistently praise his work ethic and dedication.

The Giants have reasons to believe he can overcome a difficult first half and once again become one of the dependable veterans at the center of their roster.

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