It's a role that Rafael Devers didn't want and he hasn't offered yet.
On Saturday night, the new Red Sox designated batsman became the first major league player to strike 10 times in the first three games of the season.
In a 4-3 loss to the Rangers in Boston, Devers attacked three times, 4-4. He included his final blow, including his final at-bat, which missed a 92.3 mph cutter from former teammate Chris Martin in the nine innings.
Aside from the baseloaded walks in two innings on Saturday, Devers is 12-0 to start the year.
Outside the batter's box, the former third baseman worked on drama during offseason and spring training.
After the Red Sox signed longtime Astros star Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million contract, Devers was transferred to DH status, and the idea was not accepted at the start of the camp.
“3 base is my position,” Devers, who is in the second season of a 10-year second season and has a $313.5 million contract, said through an interpreter in February. I don't know what their plans are. We know we had a conversation. I made clear what my desires were. Yes, no matter what happens from here, I don't know. ”
The 28-year-old has been with the Red Sox as a strong three-base player since 2017.
But then Devers changed his mind about the switch.
“We've already spoken, and I'm good to see them do whatever they want to do to me,” Devers told reporters in March in connection with a conversation with manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow. “I'm here to help. I've already talked about it with them and they know where I'm standing. I'm just ready to play.”
On Friday, Devers also messed up the idea that his late start was correlated with a change in his position.
“No, I think it's the past,” he said. According to MLB.com. “It was spring training. Now we're in the season. I'm DH, and it's over and I'm DH, so I feel like you all need to change the subject.”
According to Sportradar, previous records of nine strikeouts in the first three games have reached five times since 1901.
Brent Rooker (Athletics, 2024), Will Benson (Reds, 2023), Jack Cust (Rockies, 2002), Greg Luzinski (Phillies, 1974), and Wally Post (Reds, 1956) achieved feats of ignorance.
