Rafael Devers Rejects Red Sox’s First Base Request, Citing Broken Promises and Role Frustration

Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers recently addressed the media, expressing his dissatisfaction with the team’s request for him to play first base following an injury to Triston Casas. Devers shared that the team’s Chief Baseball Officer, Craig Breslow, asked him to consider taking on the first-base position.

However, Devers made it clear that he is unwilling to take up that role, as the Red Sox had previously told him to put away his glove when they moved him from third base to DH earlier in the season. He described the request as a breach of trust, feeling that the team had gone back on their word.

Devers strongly rejected the idea of changing positions once again, emphasizing that he had been promised the DH role for the long term. He stated that while he understands the team’s needs, expecting him to play every position isn’t fair, particularly after being told not to play the field.

He voiced his frustration with the Red Sox’s decision-making, noting that such a transition would be challenging, especially for someone who is not used to shifting defensive roles. Despite the request, Devers remains firm in his stance, claiming that his flexibility has limits after already being moved off third base.

Devers Faces Tension with Red Sox Over Position Changes and Future Role Uncertainty

Devers’ relationship with the Red Sox has been tense in recent months. Initially, there was speculation that the club might look to replace him at third base, with names like Alex Bregman and Nolan Arenado linked to the team during the offseason.

Though Devers has never been a strong defender, the team’s efforts to bring in a superior defender created a sense of uncertainty about his future position. Even after signing a long-term extension through 2033, Devers was told by the team that he would be the full-time DH, a decision that came after the firing of former Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom.

While Devers initially struggled with the move to DH, he later expressed a more cooperative attitude, saying he was willing to do whatever the team asked of him. However, his frustration returned when he was asked to consider playing first base after Casas’ injury.

This new request has sparked a debate about whether the Red Sox are asking too much of Devers, as moving him around the field could disrupt his focus and consistency at the plate. His initial resistance to the idea of playing first base suggests that the Red Sox may need to look elsewhere for a solution.

Red Sox Struggle to Replace Casas, Devers’ Position Change Raises Future Concerns

Following Casas’ injury, the Red Sox struggled to find a suitable replacement at first base, resorting to utility players like Romy González and Abraham Toro, who are not ideal options for the position. Moving Devers to first base would potentially solve the problem, but the transition would not be without its challenges.

First base is generally considered a less demanding position than third, but it still requires adjustments that Devers may not be willing to make. With other positional players like Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer blocked from regular playing time, the Red Sox’s internal options are limited, which may push them to explore external acquisitions.

The ongoing tension between Devers and the Red Sox front office raises questions about the future of their relationship. While Devers’ refusal to change positions may be seen as a firm stance, it also creates a sense of unease regarding his long-term commitment to the team. The Red Sox are unlikely to trade Devers, given his contract and production, but the situation remains fluid.

The club may eventually pursue other first-base options or find ways to manage Devers’ role as DH. Meanwhile, the possibility of further changes in Devers’ future with the team remains a topic of speculation, especially as the Red Sox consider the long-term outlook for third base and other positions.