Will the Rafael Devers Drama Drive Him Out of Boston?
The relationship between the Red Sox and star infielder Rafael Devers has faced tension this season due to Devers’ requests to change positions. This situation has sparked speculation about a potential split, especially since he is only in the third year of a 10-year, $315 million contract.
Rumors have already started swirling about the Phillies as a possible trade destination for Devers. The connections between Philadelphia’s Alec Bohm and team president Dave Dombrowski, along with Devers’ displeasure, may add fuel to these discussions.
Dombrowski was part of the Red Sox front office when Devers helped the team secure the World Series title in 2018. Meanwhile, Bohm is currently hitting .248 with just one home run and 12 RBIs this season, a player already subject to trade rumors for some time.
Devers, who is now 28, was designated as a designated hitter during spring training after Boston signed Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million deal. After a challenging start to the season, Devers found his rhythm and had a solid season, but an injury to Triston Casas on May 2 prompted a request for Devers to switch to first base—a request that did not sit well with him.
“I know I’m a ball player, but at the same time, they can’t expect me to play every position I’m asked to,” Devers mentioned through a translator. He expressed his reluctance, recalling conversations during spring training where he made it clear he wouldn’t take on other positions.
Devers has also directly criticized the Red Sox’s chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, stating he doesn’t understand some of the decisions being made. This has drawn the attention of Red Sox owner John Henry, who flew to Kansas City to address the situation while the team was playing the Royals.
According to Red Sox manager Alex Cora, both Henry and Devers communicated their thoughts during this meeting, emphasizing the need for adjustments amidst changes in the roster. During the series against the Royals, Nick Sogard and Abraham Toro filled in at first base for Boston, with the team winning two out of three games.
