Huge Shadow Cast on Rafael Devers’ Red Sox Future as Teammates’ Reaction to 1B Drama Revealed

For days, Red Sox manager Alex Cora stood firm on one point. Reportedly, there were no plans to ask Rafael Devers to consider a position change. The team’s designated hitter, known for his bat more than his glove, wouldn’t be fielding questions. So, just when it was confirmed that Devers is staying in a hitting role only, the real story was found to be different. Well, at least behind the scenes.

Come to find out, that conversation had already taken place. A conversation between the Red Sox CBO Craig Breslow and Devers about his probable move to first base to replace the injured Triston Casas. “They had the conversation with me,” Devers confirmed on Thursday. Looks like a lot has happened behind the scenes.

Well, the drama doesn’t end there. MLB insider Gabrielle Starr shared an insight into the Red Sox clubhouse, and things are not looking good. “Several of them were listening intently around the clubhouse, and the reactions were not positive.“

Now that doesn’t sound good for the club.

After already agreeing—reluctantly—to move from third base to designated hitter following the Red Sox’s signing of Alex Bregman, Devers has decided he will not be switching positions again. According to sources, when chief baseball officer Craig Breslow recently approached him about moving to first base in the wake of Triston Casas’ season-ending injury, Devers declined.

There are a few around the game who are applauding Devers for standing his ground after being asked to compromise twice. However, there are voices, both inside and outside the organization, who view Devers’ refusal as selfish, especially at a moment when the team needs flexibility. And while opinions outside the clubhouse are just that, the mood inside Fenway Park is what may ultimately matter most. Teammates, coaches, staffers: they’ll all have their take on Devers’ decision, particularly as the Red Sox try to navigate a pivotal stretch without their starting first baseman.

Hence, Devers may have believed his bond with the clubhouse was unshakable. But in baseball, like in any workplace, relationships can change quickly, especially when a team is watching one of its leaders put up boundaries that don’t align with collective need.

Previously, there was a huge controversy between the club and Devers regarding getting the hot corner. While that ultimately went to Alex Bregman, Devers was reportedly not happy with the decision. This time, the same script is getting read again after Casas’ injury at 1B. However, considering the messy situation, the clubhouse might have expected more flexibility from Devers.

Devers has a few things to prove

According to sources, Devers was initially furious when the Red Sox approached him about shifting off third base. Yes, that was his home since debuting in the majors, but asked to take over as the team’s designated hitter. However, as DH, it was a slow start for Devers. He struggled to find his rhythm at the plate. Through his first five games, Devers was a staggering 0-for-19, racking up 15 strikeouts in the process. He has cranked six home runs, driven in 25 RBIs, and scored 23 runs. Would you expect this figure from a DH?

Now the question is, why is the team asking Devers to take first base? Well, it’s hard to ignore the contrast when you see Rafael Devers standing next to Alex Bregman. You would notice Bregman as lean, quick-footed, compact, and perfectly built for the demands of a third baseman. The other, Devers, has a much different build, more muscular, less fleet-footed, and perhaps more suited for a position where quick lateral movements aren’t as crucial.

Hence, a position like 3B requires speed, range, and constant agility. But the reality of his body type and skill set has always suggested otherwise. Let’s be honest here, Devers may have dreamed of playing third base, but his body type just doesn’t lend itself to the high-speed, acrobatic moves required to defend there effectively.

In this sense, moving to first base might be a blessing for him. First base requires less agility, less range, and fewer explosive lateral movements. Either first base or DH, Rafael Devers has a few things to prove his worth.