The early-season struggles of Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers had everyone talking, from fans in the stands to analysts on television. It seemed like every time Devers took a swing and missed, the conversation gained more heat. Speculations swirled around what was causing the once-unstoppable bat to go quiet. Theories ran wild, but there was one theory that was at the center of it all.
Could Devers’ struggles be linked to his new role, rather than usual playing his usual third base?
Red Sox manager Alex Cora stepped in to clear up the confusion. In an interview with WEEI Boston’s Sports Original, Cora shut down these theories with authority, “Nah, nah, nah. He’s just in a bad spot mechanically,” Cora said. “He’s been grinding through it. It’s not the start we wanted, not the start he wanted. But it’s not related to the DH.”
For Cora, this was a matter of mechanics and not position. Devers wasn’t struggling because he wasn’t playing in the field. He was working through a temporary slump, and it was something that could be fixed with time and focus.
With that, Cora further explained that the coaching staff was giving Dever all the help he needed. “We are helping him with everything. It’s a new routine, we know that,” he added, firmly addressing any lingering doubts. “Whoever is saying that not playing defense equals swinging and missing, I disagree with that.” His words painted a clear picture: Devers’ struggles are just part of the game, and they had nothing to do with his position on the field.
In the end, Cora’s words underscored a simple truth: every player goes through their highs and lows, and it’s all part of their journey. Devers, with Cora’s guidance, would come out of this slump. And when he does, the Red Sox will be ready for the power-packed performance that fans know he is capable of!
Breaking the slump: Rafael Devers’ stellar bounce back
Every storm runs its course, and for Rafael Devers, this saying couldn’t be more fitting. After enduring a rough start and a disappointing MLB record to his name, the dark clouds of a slump eventually parted, and Devers’ breakthrough moment came.
In the fifth inning of Wednesday’s game against the Baltimore Orioles, Devers’ breakthrough moment arrived, and with it came the glimmer of hope for the Red Sox nation. With a 2-1 count against Orioles pitcher Zach Eflin, Devers didn’t waste his chance. Eflin launched a curveball, hanging just a bit too high, and of course, Devers made him pay!
He drove the ball to right field for a double, scoring Ceddanne Rafaela and giving the Red Sox a 3-0 lead. The crowd erupted, not just for the run but for the first hit of the season. It wasn’t just any hit, it was a statement that the slugger was back!
However, Devers wasn’t done yet. In the seventh inning, he tacked on a single, finishing the game 2-for-4 with no strikeouts. After setting a record of 15 strikeouts in his first 6 games, Devers seemed to finally click his timing and with it his confidence as well. For Devers, this wasn’t just a hit; it was the turning point he needed.
For the Red Sox and their fans, Devers’ performance was more than just a win. It was a reminder that even the most talented players face adversities, but with patience and perseverance, they can always bounce back!
The post Alex Cora Shuts Down Rafael Devers Fan Theories amid Historic Slump with Firm Response: “It’s Not Related” appeared first on EssentiallySports.
