Red Sox Navigate Devers' Transition to DH as Trade Speculation Looms
Rafael Devers assumes the designated hitter role while Alex Bregman starts at third base, but questions about Devers' long-term future persist.
- Rafael Devers officially debuted as the Boston Red Sox's full-time designated hitter on Opening Day, following Alex Bregman's arrival as the starting third baseman.
- Devers, initially resistant to the position change, has publicly stated his willingness to accept the DH role, though reports suggest he may remain privately dissatisfied.
- The Red Sox reportedly delayed informing Devers of the move, leveraging his long-term contract to finalize roster decisions, which fueled initial tensions.
- Trade speculation continues, with one proposal suggesting a deal with the Detroit Tigers involving top prospects, though analysts view such a scenario as unlikely.
- Both Devers and Bregman struggled offensively in their Opening Day performances, but the Red Sox secured a 5-2 victory, buoyed by strong bullpen work and Wilyer Abreu's two home runs.