David Ortiz realized that the connection between the Red Sox and Rafael Devers ‘wasn’t going to turn out well’

David Ortiz Comments on Raphael Devers Trade

David Ortiz found himself involved in the surprising trade of Raphael Devers.

The Red Sox icon recently discussed the situation with Ken Rosenthal. He noted that Devers’ connection with the team “didn’t end well.”

“I spent a lot of time with the Red Sox,” Ortiz reflected. “Isn’t it just a bed of roses and flowers between us? I faced tough moments, too. But I learned to process them. Even in the closest families, conflicts arise.”

As the situation developed, Ortiz felt the tension building. After transitioning to a designated hitter role early in the season and declining to play at first base, Ortiz remarked, “I couldn’t see it ending positively. There was just too much happening.”

The remarkable trade between Boston and the Giants unfolded after several months of turmoil involving Devers, the former third baseman.

The drama escalated when the Red Sox shifted the All-Star to DH on three occasions after signing third baseman Alex Bregman in free agency. It intensified further when the team suggested Devers learn first base while Triston Casas was sidelined.

Despite the tension, reports indicated that Devers had not formally requested a trade.

In exchange for Devers, the Red Sox acquired right-handed pitcher Jordan Hicks, left-handed pitcher Kyle Harrison, outfield prospect James Tibbs III, and right-handed prospect Jose Bello.

Ortiz added, “The organization is constant. Players will come and go. As a player, sometimes you need to set aside your ego and understand that once you’re rewarded, you must adapt to the team’s direction.” He emphasized this as a lesson for younger players who may think they’re above the game. “I don’t mean to say Devers embodies that. He’s humble and a great kid.”

“I’m not implying the Red Sox always got it right. But we need to give the organization a bit of leeway. They’re not out to tarnish their image; they’re just trying to make decisions that might not always be explained fully.”