Rafael Devers declines Red Sox's request to play first base

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 2:37 am

Devers Declines First Base Role, Frustrating Red Sox

Boston Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers has firmly rejected the team's request to play first base, following the season-ending knee injury to Triston Casas. Devers, currently serving as the designated hitter, made his stance clear after the Red Sox's 5-0 victory over the Texas Rangers on Thursday.

Devers, who has never played first base in his career, expressed his frustration with the situation. He stated that he was initially told during spring training to focus solely on the designated hitter role. Now, with Casas sidelined, the team approached him about filling in at first base. Devers, however, feels this contradicts the previous agreement and is not a suitable solution.

Instead of switching positions, Devers suggested the Red Sox "hit the market and look for another player" to fill the void. He emphasized his desire to stick to his current role and avoid being moved around the field.

The situation stems from the offseason acquisition of Alex Bregman, who took over the third base position. This forced Devers into the DH role, a change he initially resisted. Manager Alex Cora ultimately made the decision to keep Devers as the DH, a move that now seems to be causing tension.

Devers, 28, is currently batting .255 with 25 RBIs and hit his sixth home run of the season on Thursday. He has been the Red Sox's designated hitter for all 39 games this season. The team is currently using Romy Gonzalez and Abraham Toro as fill-ins at first base. Devers's refusal to play first base leaves the Red Sox with a roster challenge as they seek to replace Casas's production.

Keywords: Rafael Devers, Boston Red Sox, Red Sox, Triston Casas, first base, designated hitter, Alex Bregman, Alex Cora, Craig Breslow, MLB, baseball, injury, trade, Romy Gonzalez, Abraham Toro, third base, AL, American League, home run, RBIs

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