Rafael Devers Stands Firm as Red Sox Navigate Team Dynamics with Alex Bregman

The Boston Red Sox are facing a notable drama as star third baseman Rafael Devers expresses his strong feelings about sharing his position with newly acquired teammate Alex Bregman. The unfolding situation raises questions about the team’s dynamics heading into the season.

Bregman Joins the Red Sox

Alex Bregman, who built a successful career as primary third baseman for the Houston Astros, signed a lucrative three-year contract worth $120 million with the Red Sox. Expected changes occurred on the roster due to this acquisition, particularly surrounding the infield.

Many predicted that Devers would transition to designated hitter or even first base following Bregman’s arrival. However, during a recent spring training interview in Fort Myers, Florida, Devers made his intentions clear.

Devers Declares His Position

“Third base is my position. That’s what I’ve played,” Devers stated through an interpreter. He emphasized that despite conversations with management, he remains committed to his role at third base.

When asked whether he would consider moving to designated hitter, the response was a firm “no.” Devers’s unwavering stance has immediately ignited intrigue and speculation about how the Red Sox will handle their infield arrangement.

Management Weighs Options

Devers revealed that his discussion regarding his position took place with manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow. Both have played significant roles in making the Bregman deal a reality.

Cora acknowledged Devers’s pride in his performance, stating that the team will assess their options based on what benefits the Red Sox the most. “It’s not about Bregman or Devers or Cora. It’s for the Boston Red Sox,” Cora remarked.

Performance Metrics Matter

Historically, Devers has been consistent at third base, while Bregman has experience at both shortstop and second base, with 107 games at shortstop and two at second. Statistically, Bregman has outperformed Devers defensively. Last season, Bregman recorded six defensive runs saved with a defensive WAR of 8.1, according to Fangraphs. In contrast, Devers struggled with a -9 defensive runs saved and a -2.6 defensive WAR due to shoulder issues.

The Face of the Franchise

While Bregman’s addition is significant for the Red Sox’s new lineup, Devers remains the franchise’s face. He signed a monumental 10-year, $313.5 million extension before the beginning of the 2024 season, solidifying his importance to the team’s future.

Reflecting on the changes, Devers expressed surprise regarding the team’s direction, particularly as management had previously indicated he was their third baseman for the future. Despite this surprise, he remains resolute about defending his position.

The Path Forward

Devers reiterated that his commitment to third base is unwavering. “My position is third base. Whatever it is they want to do is what they want to do. But my position is third base,” he declared. This statement encapsulates the tension between the expectations of management and the aspirations of a player who has found notable success at third base.

As spring training progresses, the Red Sox must navigate this delicate situation. Bregman could potentially be shifted to shortstop, but with Trevor Story currently projected to start at that position on Opening Day, this transition may not be straightforward.

Conclusion: Anticipating Decisions

As the Red Sox prepare for the upcoming season, how they manage the positions of Devers and Bregman will be crucial. The team faces a critical juncture that involves not only the potential shifts in their lineup but also the harmony within the clubhouse. As Devers stands firm in his position, it remains to be seen how the Red Sox will adjust and what compromises may arise in the months to come.