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Giants Acquire Rafael Devers to Bolster Left-Handed Power, Embrace Positional Versatility

The former Red Sox third baseman agreed to play first base or hit as the team’s designated hitter in San Francisco.

Jun 15, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers (11) runs the bases after hitting a one run home run against the New York Yankees during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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ARLINGTON, TX - MAY 6: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox throws to first base after fielding a ball off the bat of Ronald Guzman of the Texas Rangers during the second inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington on May 6, 2018 in Arlington, Texas.
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Overview

  • Rafael Devers was traded to the San Francisco Giants on June 15 in exchange for left-hander Kyle Harrison, reliever Jordan Hicks and prospects James Tibbs and Jose Bello.
  • At his June 17 introductory news conference, Devers declared, “I am here to play wherever they want me to play,” signaling his openness to both first base and designated hitter roles.
  • Giants manager Bob Melvin said Devers will begin taking grounders at first base before splitting time between first and DH and will bat third in his debut.
  • San Francisco expects Devers to serve as its best left-handed power source since Barry Bonds, noting no Giant lefty has hit 30 home runs in a season since 2004.
  • The Red Sox have cycled through four first basemen for a combined minus-1.1 Wins Above Average this season and now face the challenge of replacing Devers’ firepower.