There is no bad blood between the Red Sox and Rafael Devers, and the Big Papi approves it. In a recent podcast, the yesteryear Red Sox legend David Ortiz shared how there is only a situation between the team and Devers and nothing sort of conflict. While it was expected that the inclusion of Alex Bregman in the team might create a problem at 3B, it proved to be true. Alex Bregman is an established third baseman, but Rafael Devers has been playing at third since 2017. So, who will end up at 3B for the Red Sox this year?
A possible rift between the Red Sox’s skipper, Alex Cora, and Rafael Devers was reported. Devers is reluctant to get to DH as planned by Cora to make way for Bregman to play at 3B. “I play third base,” Devers responded. Yes, a lack of consensus in the team, but not a conflict. Putting rest to all rumors about conflict, Devers further added, “I don’t have any beef with the team at all about anything.” Well, the issue is there between Cora’s push for Bregman at the third and Devers’ reluctance to move to DH.
There are a few discussions about why Rafael Devers was not taken into confidence before signing Bregman. However, Ortiz thinks otherwise. “I don’t want him to feel disappointed about the way the organization makes the move. Sometimes there’s a situation that happens and you have to move fast,” said Ortiz during his podcast with Baseball Isn’t Boring. Bregman’s sweepstakes was one of the most competitive in recent times, and till the very end, it was not sure which team would have the last laugh. Hence, a rush was there for the Red Sox, and why not get someone for the team’s benefit?
The Red Sox are riding high on both Devers and Bregman
Irrespective of the fact that Rafael Devers is not happy with his position change and Alex Bregman is yet to get his place, the Red Sox can still hope to have their best season this year. With both these sluggers on the team, their hope is reasonable. As per the team’s planning, Devers was asked to play as a DH and get Bregman at the third. Rafael Devers scored 87 runs in 138 games in 2024, hit 28 home runs, dished out 83 RBIs, and had a batting average of .272. Bregman, on the other side, scored 79 runs, had 75 RBI, and had 26 HRs. Hence, both possess the same figures.
However, the conversation here was sparked by Devers’ faltering defense. For the seventh consecutive year, Devers led the American League in errors among third basemen. On the other hand, Bregman made a compelling argument for 3B by leading all AL third basemen in assists, total chances, and putouts. With Devers’ reluctance to move, the Red Sox should get him at the third and Bregman at 2B. Triston Casas is leading at 1B; the Red Sox have the strongest plates in recent times.
Opening day is round the corner, and hopefully, this 3B drama will end soon. The Red Sox are all set to take the charge by putting names like Devers and Bregman at the bases.
What do you think about the best position for Bregman and Devers? Share with us below.
The post “Don’t Want Him to Feel Disappointed” – David Ortiz Clears Stance on Rafael Devers & Alex Bregman Amid Red Sox’s 3B Drama appeared first on EssentiallySports.
