It’s been a long time since MLB has seen a situation as tense as that between the Red Sox and their star third baseman, Rafael Devers. Well, clubhouse disagreements are nothing new, but this particular standoff has escalated into something far more dramatic. It has now reached levels that demand the attention of not just the front office, but ownership itself. Yes, what started as reported frustration over the direction of the team and roster decisions has now spiraled into a full-blown organizational crisis.
So serious that the Red Sox owner, John Henry, reportedly had to personally intervene, flying out to meet with Devers in hopes of cooling tensions.
But just when things seemed like they might settle, a new spark was thrown into the fire. Former MLB shortstop Rafael Furcal, never one to shy away from bold takes has now taken a public dig at Red Sox CBO Craig Breslow. Thus, it reignited an already volatile situation and shone an even brighter spotlight on the leadership challenges. “Now you’re retracting the truth. If you don’t want it, change it and stop being a liar.“
Former MLB player Rafael Furcal reacting about GM Craig Breslow and Devers :
Furcal: Now you’re retracting the truth. If you don’t want it, change it and stop being a liar. #redsox pic.twitter.com/fp0tnnGeB8
— Mike Rodriguez (@mikedeportes) May 10, 2025
Red Sox Manager Alex Cora’s presence at the recent team meeting underscores the team’s intent to manage internal unrest quietly and avoid a public spectacle.
However, those efforts were complicated by Furcal, whose pointed social media post added fuel to the fire. In it, Furcal criticized the organization’s direction against Devers and called for immediate changes. A message that quickly gained traction among fans and some within the clubhouse. Moreover, his comments have not only amplified the discontent, but also placed added pressure on the front office to take visible action.
Devers, who reluctantly transitioned from third base to designated hitter after the Red Sox signed Alex Bregman in the offseason. He also made it clear that he wasn’t willing to shift positions again. Back to present, when asked about potentially filling in at first base following Triston Casas’ season-ending injury, Rafael Devers firmly declined. Here, the issue got fueled up.
Now, with key players voicing frustration and the clubhouse mood reportedly strained, the team’s leadership is facing hard questions about both strategy and cohesion.
Time is ticking for the team to resolve the Devers saga
The Red Sox could explore internal options to address their first base vacancy. While Devers is surely not getting to first base, the team needs to check for rookies or trade some good names. While the market isn’t deep, it’s not completely barren.
NBC Sports Boston’s Justin Leger recently floated the idea of the Red Sox signing Anthony Rizzo, a 3x All-Star. Well, you might disagree because Rizzo’s recent stint with the Yankees was underwhelming. It is also marred by injuries and a .228/.301/.335 slash line last season. He just scored eight home runs and a .637 OPS. So, should he be a good replacement for Devers?
If healthy, Rizzo would be a logical candidate to fill the void at first. His connection to the Red Sox organization adds intrigue. Beyond his past All-Star recognition and a World Series title, Rizzo brings a decorated resume. This includes four Gold Gloves, a Platinum Glove, a Silver Slugger, and the Roberto Clemente Award. So, he’s a name worth watching.
While the Red Sox are pushing Rafael Devers to take first base, reportedly, the team is also pursuing Romy Gonzalez for the same position. Hence, if Gonzalez can be settled, Devers would be happy as a DH. Now that could be the best way to resolve the saga.
The post “Stop Being a Liar” – Amid Rafael Devers-Craig Breslow Tussle, Former Dominican Star Erupts in Fury With Scathing Message appeared first on EssentiallySports.
