Trio of Red Sox Stars Have Joined NL West in Last 5 Years

Newsweek

5 hours ago

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The Boston Red Sox traded third baseman Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants Sunday afternoon, an indication there would be seismic changes in the National League West.
Read more: Dodgers Star Pitcher Speaks Out on Rival Giants Acquiring Rafael Devers
In recent years, the division appears to be a frequent recipient of former Red Sox stars, with Devers being the latest.
The 2018 World Champion Red Sox featured three of baseball's biggest stars in Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts and Devers. One could argue this was one of the greatest eras of Red Sox baseball as the team was not only talented, but also adored by the fanbase.
However, just a few years later, key players from the 2018 Red Sox have found new homes (particularly in the NL West).
BOSTON, MA - MAY 4: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox heads for the dugout after flying out against the Minnesota Twins during the second inning at Fenway Park on May 4, 2025...
BOSTON, MA - MAY 4: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox heads for the dugout after flying out against the Minnesota Twins during the second inning at Fenway Park on May 4, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. MoreIn February 2020, Boston traded Betts and David Price to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for Alex Verdugo, Jeter Downs, and Connor Wong. Betts arrived to Hollywood as a 27-year-old in the prime of his career, coming off a season where he won American League MVP and a World Series ring.
The baseball world was left dumbfounded that the Red Sox were willing to give up a generational talent and fan favorite like Betts, but Boston moved on.
In the case of Bogaerts, the team let the shortstop walk away in free agency. Bogaerts signed an 11-year, $280 million contract with the San Diego Padres in December 2022.
It was once again another stunning deal involving a former Red Sox star, and left many Boston fans wondering why management was parting ways with some of the organization's best players.
Nevertheless, the team moved on.
In January 2023, the Red Sox signed Devers to a 10-year, $313.5 million extension signaling the third baseman would be the cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.
Things took a turn last offseason when Boston signed All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman and Devers was asked to become the team's designated hitter.
Devers initially said no to the Red Sox's request, but manager Alex Cora persuaded the 28-year-old to make the switch. Once Tristan Casas was sidelined by injury, Devers was asked by the media if he would take reps at first base.
Devers publicly criticized Red Sox management, specifically chief baseball officer Craig Breslow.
It appears the drama and discord behind the scenes was damaging enough for Boston to cut ties with Devers. Perhaps the most shocking part of the deal was the return package for the Red Sox did not include a first baseman.
Instead, the Giants sent pitchers Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison as well as prospects James Tibbs and Jose Bello. Harrison was optioned to Triple-A soon after the trade was announced.
Devers was arguably Boston's best player this season, hitting .272/.401/.504 with a .905 OPS. Devers has 15 home runs, 58 RBIs and 74 hits in 334 plate appearances.
The Gold Glover has only played for the Red Sox throughout his Major League career, making his debut with the team in 2017.
Devers will begin a new chapter with the Giants, who are in the midst of a tight division race, as another former Red Sox star to join the NL West.
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