REPORT: Frustrated Rafael Devers Finally Opens Up On Controversial Position Change
After making controversial statements at the start of spring training, Rafael Devers is now saying all the right things publicly. But has his stance truly changed? Initially unwilling to move from third base, Devers will begin the season as the Red Sox’s designated hitter, with Alex Bregman taking over at third and top prospect Kristian Campbell slotting in at second. Reports suggest Devers nearly requested a trade out of frustration, but ahead of Opening Day, he reassured WEEI’s Rob Bradford that he’s content.
“I’m ready to start the season. I’m feeling good,” Devers said through translator Daveson Perez. “There’s no difference in preparing for at-bats as a DH. I follow the same routine. Nothing changes. I’m excited to get going. Spring training is way too long.”
Still, whether Devers has fully embraced this transition remains to be seen, raising questions about his long-term future in Boston. If not for Bregman, a stronger defender, Devers might still be at third. As for their dynamic, Bregman spoke positively about playing alongside Devers in a conversation with NESN’s Tom Caron.
“It’s been great,” Bregman said. “I’ve always admired him as one of the best players in baseball. Competing against him was always fun, and now I’m thrilled to be teammates, working together to win games and bring postseason baseball back to Boston.”
The Red Sox will kick off their season on Thursday against the Texas Rangers.