BOSTON — Rafael Devers has settled into his role as the Boston Red Sox’s designated hitter and is not considering another switch in positions. The conversation arose after Triston Casas, an essential player for the team, was ruled out for the season due to a ruptured tendon in his left knee, which required surgery. Following this development, Red Sox management proposed the idea of Devers stepping in as the team’s first baseman.
The three-time All-Star, however, expressed his reluctance to switch positions again. He had already made a significant change from playing third base to becoming a designated hitter during spring training after Boston acquired Alex Bregman to cover third. Devers emphasized his decision after contributing to Boston’s 5-0 victory over Texas with a home run and two RBIs. “They approached me about it,” Devers explained. “But they cannot expect me to cover every position. In spring training, they instructed me to shelve my glove, indicating I wasn’t expected to play another position besides DH. Relocating to another position now would not be appropriate.”
Having secured an extensive $311 million, 11-year contract with the Red Sox in January 2021, Devers had a conversation with Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow regarding the first baseman position in Casas’ absence. At present, Boston has decided to use a rotation of Romy Gonzalez and Abraham Toro to fill that role. “Breslow has experience as a player, so he should understand that transitioning between positions is no easy feat,” Devers communicated through Red Sox interpreter Daveson Perez. “I’m now in this position because they told me they didn’t require me in any other roles.”
Devers even offered advice to Breslow, who previously pitched over 12 major league seasons and was crucial to Boston’s bullpen during their 2013 World Series victory. Breslow is in his second year overseeing the Red Sox’s baseball operations. “They should focus on their responsibilities and consider the market for a new player,” Devers suggested. “If they face another injury in the outfield, then what? If they need me out there, it disrupts the clarity of my role. I’m aware of my capabilities and position.”
When asked if he might reconsider if the current first base options fail to perform, Devers firmly stated his dedication to being a full-time designated hitter. Additionally, he expressed frustration that the team is contemplating positioning him in an area where he has never played in a professional setting. “Maybe I’m a bit stubborn, but they’d already asked me to transition once. This time, I can’t be as adaptable,” Devers remarked. “I feel misled; they assured me I’d be at DH. I believe they are going back on their word.”