More than a week has passed since Rafael Devers firmly stated at Fenway South that he had no intention of moving off third base, even as the Red Sox considered playing new teammate Alex Bregman there. While little has changed in the past eight days, Devers wants to make it clear that there is no friction between him and the team.
Speaking from his locker at JetBlue Park on Tuesday, Devers reiterated his stance—he does not want to shift to designated hitter—but also emphasized that there is no animosity between him and the organization.
“I said everything I needed to say that day,” Devers explained through translator Daveson Perez. “I still feel the same way.
“I’m not frustrated. I have no reason to be. My family is good, my kids are good—there’s nothing for me to be upset about. I don’t pay attention to outside noise. I just focus on what I can do, and I’m happy with that.”
Last Monday, Devers’ declaration that he wouldn’t relinquish his position made national headlines, as Bregman—who won the 2024 AL Gold Glove at third base with the Astros—was being considered for the spot. Both manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow have since addressed Devers’ remarks, which some perceived as a sign of tension between the Red Sox and their star third baseman. However, Devers dismissed that notion on Tuesday.
“I don’t understand why this has become such a big story,” he said. “We’re a team, and we communicate. The most important thing is to have good chemistry. From Day 1, I’ve always said winning is what matters most.”
The Red Sox have yet to decide whether Bregman will play third base or second, as he has been practicing at both positions early in camp. The team could keep Devers at third and move Bregman to second, or they could prioritize defense by slotting Bregman at third and shifting Devers to DH—especially if a young second baseman like Kristian Campbell or Vaughn Grissom steps up before Opening Day.
Devers, still awaiting clarity on his role, recently met with his agent, Nelson Montes de Oca, in Fort Myers but has not had further discussions with Cora or Breslow about his defensive position. That said, he remains in open communication with Cora, who has managed him for six of his seven full MLB seasons.
“We’re a team. Alex is my manager, and I respect him a lot,” Devers said. “He’s not my enemy. If something doesn’t feel right, I can talk to him. That’s what teams do—we work toward one goal.”
Devers, who is expected to make his Grapefruit League debut next week after easing into camp due to lingering shoulder issues from last season, continues to train at third base and anticipates playing there in exhibition games. More discussions will take place ahead of the season opener on March 27 in Texas.
“I know the player I am,” Devers said. “I know what I bring offensively and defensively. I don’t see why this is a big deal. I trust my ability, and I don’t have to be at odds with anyone.
“I’m a ballplayer—I don’t feel pressure from anyone or the media. I know my talent. What defines me is that I love this game. I love to smile, to have fun, and to play. At the end of the day, it’s a game, and I know I’m really good at it.”