It seems like the Boston Red Sox’s 2025 season is mired in drama and injuries. First, it was hot-corner drama, and now drama has started over the other corner. The baseball gods tossed a curveball just when the Red Sox believed they had their lineup ready. Star 1B Triston Casas swung hard and ruptured the patellar tendon in his knee, which sidelined him for the entire season. The ripple effect? A significant gap in the infield and the batting order. And now, the club is dealing with the big question: who can fill his position?

This marks Casas’ second major injury after 2024, when he broke a rib and had to miss four months. He not only left the field but also left the Red Sox with a major problem they have yet to solve. To make matters worse within the organization, there’s a rift in the dugout. Rafael Devers, designated hitter, was asked to take over first base. However, he denied making the shift since not very long ago, Boston shifted him from third base to DH. In the aftermath? The team owner, John Henry, and key officials flew to Kansas City to address the growing tension. Indeed, it’s a big mess for the Red Sox. But perhaps, there’s a solution.

The Red Sox are looking externally to fill the gap at first base since internal choices have been exhausted. Marianna Moreno of FanSided believes there could be a possible deal with the San Diego Padres for a versatile infielder known for his steady hitting. Luis Arraez, who has recorded 200 hits over the past two seasons, might be the answer. But there are specific terms and conditions. For example, are the Red Sox willing to give up younger players to get him?

The Red Sox may have to give up some promising minor league talent if they want to acquire this infielder. Names such as catcher/first baseman Nathan Hickey, pitcher Cooper Criswell, and outfield prospect Miguel Bleis have been mentioned as possible trade pieces. This move would balance present needs with future potential, making it a major decision.

As for Devers, his insistence on remaining in one position has damaged his relationship with management and cast doubt on his dedication to the team’s success. However, it’s not the first time he has been asked to switch positions. And that’s exactly what Devers said when asked about this ongoing situation. He said, “I know I’m a ballplayer, but at the same time, they can’t expect me to play every single position out there. In spring training, they talked to me and basically told me to put away my glove.”

He didn’t stop there and answered very directly about his position. He said, “I wasn’t going to play another position other than DH. Right now, I don’t think it would be an appropriate decision by them to ask me to play another position.” Devers is very clear about his stance. So, does this mean they will sign the $14 million Padres star?

With Devers unwilling to move from his designated hitter role, the Red Sox are left scrambling for answers at first base—a challenge made even tougher by a wave of injuries and limited internal options.

Red Sox’s 1B woes deepen amid injuries

A string of injuries and internal conflicts has deepened the Red Sox’s difficulties at first base in the 2025 season. Romy Gonzalez took over after Casas’ season-ending injury on May 2. Over 17 games, Gonzalez batted .308 and had a .785 OPS, which was rather good. However, his recent placement on the 10-day injured list with a left quad contusion has limited the club’s infield choices.

The Red Sox have called up infielder Nick Sogard from Triple-A Worcester following Gonzalez’s injury. Sogard, who batted .273 in 31 games with Boston in 2024, made his season debut on Saturday against the Kansas City Royals, contributing a hit and a run in a 10-1 victory. Manager Alex Cora hinted that Sogard will share first base duties with Abraham Toro, adding, “We’ll mix and match with him and Toro… The two of them will be splitting first, the next week or so.”

The Red Sox are now walking a tightrope, trying to stay competitive in the American League East while juggling injuries and internal conflicts. Whether the club succeeds for the rest of the season will depend on its ability to adapt and find effective solutions.