Former MLB Executive Suggests Release or Trade of Rafael Devers To Red Sox
Rafael Devers has not done much to help his public image lately. The Boston Red Sox superstar has been under a microscope for his reluctance to part with third base (which he eventually did) and now a refusal to learn first base (which remains to be seen if he will cave).
The drama has stirred tensions between Devers and the front office, who rightfully expect a more team-first approach from their highest-paid player. Devers is set to make $27 million this year and in 2026, and then $28.5 million every season through 2033.
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This hefty financial and yearly commitment to Devers warrants more sacrifices and at least an openness to a conversation about learning first base. Without Triston Casas for the rest of the year, manager Alex Cora will need someone other than Romy González to step up.
Former Miami Marlins President David Samson brought up a potential Red Sox divorce from Devers and had to say on his podcast:
'There is not a team in baseball, not one of 29 teams, who would take Devers' contract, no-trade clause or not,' Samson said.
Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers (11) hits a home run against the Texas Rangers in the seventh inning at Fenway Park.David Butler II-Imagn Images
Samson also said he would release Devers based on recent comments about not wanting to play first.
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The problem for the Red Sox is that hitters of Devers' caliber do not grow on trees. Since entering the league in 2017 with Boston, he has consistently produced and stayed on the field. Devers has played in 1,019 games with 162-game averages of 33 home runs, 105 RBIs, a .278 batting average, an .855 OPS, and a 127 OPS+.
This includes five top-18 American League MVP finishes, two Silver Sluggers, and three All-Star Game appearances. Devers was also an integral part of the Red Sox's 2018 World Series victory.
Hopefully for Boston, Devers can evaporate any ill will with a hot streak at the plate. But, so long as the 20-19 Red Sox continue to play an unimpressive brand, Devers will be subjected to criticism, whether fair or not.
Related: Red Sox Players React to Stubborn Rafael Devers Comments
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