It’s tough sledding right now in Red Sox Nation. The team’s talent is undeniable — they’re hovering near contention with flashes of brilliance — but the vibes? Not so great. And at the center of the tension sits Rafael Devers, Boston’s $330 million cornerstone, whose position on the diamond has suddenly become a daily debate.
The Devers Dilemma
Let’s be clear: Devers is Boston’s best hitter, full stop. But he’s also been, statistically, one of baseball’s worst defensive third basemen for years. When the Red Sox landed Alex Bregman this past offseason, it wasn’t a total shock to see Devers bumped from third to designated hitter. What was shocking to Devers was how suddenly it happened and how little input he seemed to have in the matter.
Now, it’s gotten even messier. With Triston Casas out injured and no clear alternative, the Red Sox want Devers to take reps at first base. That’s a big ask, especially for a player who’s still adjusting to life as a full-time DH. And Devers? He’s not hiding his hesitation.
The Freeman Flashback
This situation might feel familiar to Atlanta Braves fans — although, in fairness, it’s familiar with a twist. Back in 2017, the Braves made a surprise positional switch when Freddie Freeman, just off the injured list, agreed to play third base to keep a red-hot bat (Matt Adams) in the lineup.
Freeman hadn’t touched third since the minor leagues, and spoiler alert: he wasn’t great at it. But he tried. He lasted 17 games and then went back to first — but the effort wasn’t lost on fans or the clubhouse.
It was selfless. It was team-first. And it reinforced Freeman’s already sterling reputation.
Time for Devers to Take the Leap?
That’s where the comparison gets tricky. Unlike Freeman, Devers isn’t moving away from a strong defensive position — he’s being moved because of his defense. And that stings.
But the fact remains: the Red Sox have a need, and they’re asking a player with limited defensive success to try something new. Not just for the team’s benefit, but maybe even for his own.
If Devers adjusts to first base even modestly well, it opens a new chapter in his career — one where he can still contribute in the field and earn back some of the confidence that’s eroded in recent years. And if it doesn’t work? Well, there’s always the DH spot waiting for him.
A Legacy at a Crossroads
Red Sox fans want to love Rafael Devers. And to be clear, many still do. He’s been a cornerstone through lean years and bright moments. But this situation, if left unresolved, could fester.
Trade whispers are starting to circulate. Frustrations are mounting. And the more Devers resists even giving first base a shot, the harder it becomes to sympathize, even for the most devoted fans.
In Atlanta, Freeman remains a beloved figure in part because of moments like 2017 — imperfect, awkward, but undeniably team-driven. Devers still has the chance to build that kind of legacy in Boston. But he has to meet the team halfway. He has to try.
