The Boston Red Sox have made significant changes this offseason, but key decisions remain if they want to optimize their 2025 roster. With third base, first base, and overall lineup balance in mind, here are three crucial moves the Red Sox should make before Opening Day.
The Red Sox need to face reality: Rafael Devers’ long-term future isn’t at third base. While he has been a mainstay at the hot corner, his defensive struggles continue, and his offensive production would be just as valuable at first base. Instead of shifting Gold Glove third baseman Alex Bregman to second base, Boston should move Devers across the diamond and let Bregman handle third.
Devers has resisted the idea, stating, “I think it’s Raffy Devers’ position. I think he’s the third baseman” (via MassLive). However, ESPN’s Jeff Passan believes a transition is inevitable: “He’s going to move off third base. I don’t know if it’s going to be on Opening Day this year or in June, but it will happen.”
Making this change would solidify the infield defense, especially with Trevor Story returning at shortstop, and allow Bregman to play his natural position. Meanwhile, Devers could extend his career and avoid the defensive issues that have hindered him.
Trade Triston Casas for a prospect haul from the Mariners
If Devers moves to first base, Triston Casas becomes the odd man out. While he has shown promise as one of Boston’s top young hitters, concerns about his durability and consistency have clouded his long-term outlook. His rising strikeout rate (31.7% in 2024) and defensive shortcomings make him a trade candidate—especially if the Red Sox can secure a strong prospect package from the Seattle Mariners.
Casas posted a respectable .241/.337/.462 slash line last season, but it wasn’t enough to cement him as an untouchable piece in Boston’s lineup. Meanwhile, the Mariners are in desperate need of a first baseman and have a deep farm system, making them an ideal trade partner. Moving Casas would allow the Red Sox to maximize his value while adding high-upside talent and reshaping their infield for the future.