Rafael Devers has flatly rejected the Red Sox front office’s request to play first base, creating tension between the star and the organization as they scramble to fill the position after Triston Casas’ knee injury.
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow approached Devers about moving to first, according to MassLive’s Christopher Smith. The three-time All-Star didn’t just say no – he questioned Breslow’s judgment and commitment to their previous agreement.
“It was the GM that I spoke with,” Devers told reporters. “I’m not sure what he has with me. He played ball and I would like to think he knows that changing positions like that isn’t easy.”
This marks the second position change request Devers has received this year. He’s already transitioned from his natural third base to designated hitter, a move that coincided with early-season struggles. The slugger started 0-for-19 and his numbers remain below his career averages.
“They had the conversation with me,” Devers said. “I don’t think for me personally it’s the best decision after they asked me to play a different position and I only have two months of playing this position. To all of a sudden have me try to play another position… from my end, it doesn’t seem like a good decision.”
What’s particularly frustrating for Devers is what he perceives as a broken promise. The Red Sox told him he’d only be a DH this season, and now they’re asking for another adjustment.
“I don’t think they stay true to their word,” Devers said.
The relationship between Devers and the front office appears strained, though he emphasized his connection with teammates remains strong.
“Here in the clubhouse, thankfully, the relationship that I have with my teammates is great,” Devers said. “I don’t understand some of the decisions that the GM makes. Next thing you know someone in the outfield gets hurt and they want me to play in the outfield. I think I know the kind of player I am. And yeah, that’s just where I stand.”
Breslow, who spent 12 seasons in the majors as a reliever before moving to the front office, now faces a difficult situation. With Casas sidelined and Devers unwilling to move, he’ll need to look elsewhere for a solution. Devers has made his preference clear – he wants Breslow to find help on the trade market rather than disrupting his role again.
