The Red Sox are positioning themselves as serious contenders for 2025 after signing star third baseman Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million deal this offseason.
Boston’s recent seasons have been a roller coaster. After reaching the ALCS in 2021, they stumbled through consecutive 78-84 last-place finishes before rebounding to a .500 record (81-81) last season, good for third in the AL East.
The front office has been aggressive in improving the roster, first trading for White Sox ace Garrett Crochet during the Winter Meetings before landing Bregman. But the Bregman signing created an interesting situation – Rafael Devers, the team’s $313 million franchise cornerstone, had previously made it clear he wanted to stay at third base.
Devers addressed the situation head-on when speaking with reporters.
“I feel like I said everything I needed to say that day,” Devers said through translator Daveson Perez. “I still feel the same way. I have no reason to be frustrated about anything. I don’t listen to what’s said. I don’t pay attention to what is said. I just know what I’m capable of.”
The 28-year-old Devers, who signed his 10-year megadeal in 2023, has backed up his contract with strong production. He slashed .272/.354/.516 with 28 homers and 83 RBIs last season while manning the hot corner.
Devers seems puzzled by the attention his position preference has received.
“I really don’t know why this is becoming such a big story. We’re a team and we communicate with each other. Like I’ve always said since Day 1, the most important thing for me is that we win. That’s where I stand.”
The Red Sox now face an interesting decision with two All-Star caliber third basemen on the roster. Bregman could potentially shift to second base, where he has limited experience, or the team might consider using one as a designated hitter. What’s clear is that Devers has his preference – but he’s also emphasizing team success above all.
