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2mo ago

Rafael Devers Trade Speculation Grows as Red Sox Tensions Escalate

The Boston slugger's refusal to switch positions and public criticism of team leadership have fueled rumors of a potential move, with insiders linking him to top MLB contenders.

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 8: Ceddanne Rafaela #3 of the Boston Red Sox looks on in the dugout during a Grapefruit League game against the Minnesota Twins at Lee Health Sports Complex in Fort Myers, Florida on March 8, 2025. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - AUGUST 26: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts with Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox during the first inning of a game on August 26, 2023 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.
BOSTON, MA - MAY 12: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox smiles during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Fenway Park on May 12, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.
ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 02: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox celebrates after hitting a solo home run during the ninth inning at Globe Life Field on August 2, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

Overview

  • Rafael Devers has publicly refused to move from his designated hitter role to first base following Triston Casas's season-ending injury, deepening tensions with the Red Sox front office.
  • Devers criticized Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow's handling of the situation, prompting speculation about a potential trade despite his elite offensive performance.
  • Insiders, including Ken Rosenthal and Kerry Miller, suggest teams like the Dodgers, Cubs, and Nationals could be interested in acquiring Devers, although no trade is imminent.
  • Devers, who signed a 10-year, $313.5 million extension in 2024, lacks a no-trade clause, making a deal financially feasible for potential suitors.
  • Despite the off-field drama, Devers was named AL Player of the Week for May 5–11, showcasing his continued dominance at the plate with a .476 batting average and 1.387 OPS during that span.