The San Francisco Giants surprised many around the baseball world last weekend by acquiring All-Star hitter Rafael Devers from the Boston Red Sox. A week later, more details are emerging regarding the teams that pursued Devers and why San Francisco came out on top.
USA Today‘s Bob Nightengale writes that the Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves and Toronto Blue Jays all engaged with the Red Sox in discussions regarding a trade for Devers. However, the Giants’ willingness to absorb the entirety of Devers’ contract is ultimately what led to a deal.
Related: Boston Red Sox insider explains rationale for Rafael Devers trade
- Rafael Devers contract (Spotrac): $31.318 million salary in 2025, $27 million salary in 2026, $28.4 million annual salary for 2027-2033
Multiple reports following the trade called Devers’ contract “underwater,” and teams were extremely hesitant to take on a majority of the $254.5 million contract. After striking out on premium talents in MLB free agency, San Francisco was uniquely positioned to take on the entirety of the salary.
Seattle’s interest in Devers isn’t surprising. The club is in the market for a first baseman and has already been linked to a few targets. However, Mariners’ ownership doesn’t want to add significant money to the club’s payroll and likely would have wanted Boston to cover a significant portion of Devers’ salary.
- Rafael Devers stats (ESPN): .267/.393/.497, .890 OPS, 16 home runs, 61 RBI in 292 ABs
The same likely goes for the Padres and Cubs, who certainly would’ve benefited from adding another All-Star bat to the lineup. However, both clubs are led by ownership that is adamant about not allowing an exorbitant payroll. It’s what made San Francisco stand out among the suitors.
Atlanta’s interest in Devers is particularly intriguing considering their current lineup. Austin Riley and Matt Olson are signed to long-term deals as corner infielders and Marcell Ozuna is locked into the designated hitter spot. With Devers off the market, Atlanta figures to keep Ozuna past the MLB trade deadline.
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