The atmosphere surrounding the Boston Red Sox has grown tense in recent weeks, and at the center of the unrest stands Rafael Devers, whose quiet but pointed comments are beginning to tell a bigger story. While the two-time All-Star has long been viewed as the cornerstone of Boston’s rebuild, his relationship with the front office has hit turbulent waters.
It all began with the club’s controversial offseason move to bring in Alex Bregman, a fellow third baseman. The addition immediately raised questions, especially after Devers was reportedly asked to shift to designated hitter. Though he initially resisted, the idea was eventually dropped—at least for the moment.
Then came the season-ending injury to Triston Casas. Once again, Devers was approached—this time with the request to take over at first base. And once again, the answer was no.
Devers’ message
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Devers didn’t hide his frustration. “Here in the clubhouse, thankfully, the relationship I have with my teammates is great,” he said. “I don’t understand some of the decisions the GM makes. Next thing you know, someone in the outfield gets hurt and they want me to play in the outfield.”
Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox talks with manager Alex Cora #13 in the dugout during the seventh inning of their game against the Chicago White Sox at Fenway Park on April 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
The comment, while wrapped in humor, landed with weight. Sources close to the team say Devers has grown increasingly uncomfortable with being the first name mentioned whenever the team faces a positional crisis. His stance is clear: he’s the third baseman, and Boston needs to find long-term solutions elsewhere.
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Behind closed doors, that message hasn’t gone unheard. Several teammates have reportedly expressed support for Devers’ position, including Bregman, who was open to moving to second base to avoid disrupting the infield chemistry.
A fractured vision at the top?
The growing disconnect between Devers and the front office is part of a broader concern: lack of direction. Despite a talented roster and glimpses of postseason potential, the Red Sox have hovered around the .500 mark, struggling to build sustained momentum.
Internally, some players believe the inconsistency is less about talent and more about decision-making at the executive level. And Devers’ words—delivered with calm but unmistakable clarity—reflect that sentiment. “They know where I stand,” he’s reportedly told those close to him.
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Should the Red Sox front office give Rafael Devers more say in position decisions?
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As Boston continues to chase stability in a tightly contested division, the question now isn’t just about positions—it’s about priorities. And with a leader like Devers drawing a clear line, the pressure is mounting for the Red Sox front office to prove they’re listening.
