Despite finishing with an 81-81 record and missing the playoffs for the third consecutive season, the Boston Red Sox managed to produce one of the better offensive performances in MLB during 2024. The team was led by breakout star Jarren Duran, who posted an 8.7 WAR and finished at the top of the American League in both doubles (48) and triples (14). As a result, the Red Sox offense scored 751 runs, ranking fourth in the AL and ninth overall in MLB.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Red Sox offense is expected to improve further with the addition of free-agent signing Alex Bregman and the return to full health of first baseman Triston Casas. Casas, who missed 99 games in 2024, will add strength to the lineup, making Boston’s offense even more formidable in the upcoming season.
Questions Surround $315.5 Million Star Rafael Devers
Rafael Devers’ struggles in 2024 have put added pressure on the Red Sox as they look to return to playoff contention in 2025. After an impressive start to the season, Devers’ performance drastically declined due to a left shoulder injury, followed by a right shoulder injury in late July. His .205 batting average over his final 42 games and subsequent trip to the injured list on September 21 brought his season to an early end.
As the centerpiece of Boston’s lineup and the second year of his 10-year, $313.5 million contract extension approaching, the Red Sox are counting on Devers to bounce back. His performance will be critical, as he’s expected to carry a large portion of the offensive load for a team looking to improve upon its 81-81 record and make a playoff push in 2025. The Red Sox will need Devers to regain his health and form if they are to compete in the tough AL East and beyond.
Rafael Devers’ shoulder injuries have clearly affected his performance, particularly in the second half of 2024. His drop in power and OPS is concerning, especially given his role as the core of Boston’s offense. While avoiding surgery on his shoulders was a positive sign, the lingering discomfort has left his status for the 2025 season in limbo.
The fact that Devers hasn’t started throwing yet raises further concerns about his readiness for Opening Day. However, it’s promising that he’s been taking ground balls, and Cora mentioned that his swing is looking good. If Devers can get back to full health, he could return to his previous form and provide the Red Sox with the offensive spark they need. But, for now, whether he’ll be ready for the season opener remains uncertain, and the Red Sox will need to keep monitoring his progress closely.
Devers May be Destined for DH Role
The arrival of Alex Bregman and his Gold Glove-winning defense at third base has added another layer of complexity to Devers’ situation. With his shoulder issues, the question now is whether Devers should continue to play third base, or if he should transition to a full-time designated hitter role. Given Bregman’s elite defense, it seems like a real possibility that the Red Sox could make that shift, but it’s certainly a difficult decision given Devers’ history and role as the face of the team.
Cora’s comments indicate that Devers is handling the situation professionally, which is good news, but the uncertainty surrounding his health and position adds a layer of intrigue. The fact that Devers has been at the training facility early shows his commitment to getting ready, even if he’s not ready to speak publicly yet. His media session will be key to understanding his mindset heading into the season.
If Devers does need to transition to DH due to health concerns, the Red Sox will have to adjust their lineup, but with Bregman now in the fold, they could still maintain a strong infield defense. Time will tell how this situation plays out, but it could shape the Red Sox’s season significantly.