The spring training drama surrounding Rafael Devers appears to have subsided.
The three-time All-Star has finally had a change of heart about relinquishing third base to Alex Bregman. Last month, Devers emphatically stated he would not move off the hot corner for the Gold Glover, causing some tension within camp.
But now, Devers wants to do what’s best for the team.
“We spoke already, and I’m good to do whatever they want me to do,” said Devers through translator Daveson Perez, via The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey. “I’m here to help. I’ve already spoken with them about that, and they know where I stand. I’m just ready to play.”
Devers is a dominant force at the plate, hitting 30 or more home runs three times in eight seasons with Boston. However, he has been one of the worst defenders at third base, committing 141 errors and either leading the American League or all of baseball in errors seven times. He will now serve as the team’s designated hitter.
Devers has yet to play any games this spring training as he’s working to strengthen his shoulders following last year’s injuries that shut him down late in the season.
With Bregman now firmly entrenched at third, a top prospect has a clear path to slide into the second base position.
Boston Red Sox top prospect poised for Opening Day after infield reshuffling
With Bregman manning third instead of second, top prospect Kristian Campbell should make the Opening Day roster as the team’s starting second baseman.
Campbell, a fourth-round pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, has rocketed through the Red Sox system. The 22-year-old slashed an impressive .330/.439/.558 with 20 home runs, 32 doubles, 24 stolen bases, and 94 runs scored across three minor league levels last year.
He represents one of a trio of Red Sox prospects who could make their MLB debuts shortly. Baseball’s No. 1 overall prospect Roman Anthony is expected to arrive sometime this summer, while shortstop phenom Marcelo Mayer might have to wait until 2026 for his turn in the spotlight.
