Red Sox star Rafael Devers creating drama with new teammate, Alex Bregman: ‘Third base is my position’

Tension Brews in Boston: Rafael Devers and the Red Sox Face Positional Drama

The Boston Red Sox have kicked off their spring training with an unexpected dose of drama, as star third baseman Rafael Devers has made it clear he has no intention of relinquishing his position to newly signed infielder Alex Bregman. Bregman, who inked a massive three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox last week, has primarily played third base throughout his career with the Houston Astros. However, Devers, the Red Sox’s incumbent All-Star at the hot corner, is unwilling to budge. During an interview at the team’s spring training facility in Fort Myers, Devers emphasized that third base is his position and that he has no interest in moving to designated hitter or first base, as previously speculated.

Devers’ Firm Stance and the Red Sox’s Delicate Situation

Devers, who signed a 10-year, $313.5 million extension with the Red Sox before the 2024 season, made his feelings abundantly clear. "Third base is my position. That’s what I’ve played," he said through an interpreter. When asked if he would consider moving to designated hitter, he flatly responded, "I gave them the answer that I just gave, no." Devers also revealed that he had a conversation with manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, expressing his desire to remain at third base. The Red Sox now find themselves in a tricky situation, needing to balance the desires of their franchise cornerstone with the expectations surrounding their high-profile offseason acquisition.

Bregman’s Defensive Excellence and the Case for a Position Shift

While Devers has been a cornerstone of the Red Sox lineup, Bregman’s defensive credentials at third base are undeniably impressive. Last season, Bregman posted six defensive runs saved and a defensive WAR of 8.1, according to Fangraphs, numbers that far outpace Devers’ defensive metrics. Devers, who struggled defensively last year due in part to shoulder issues, finished with -9 defensive runs saved and a -2.6 defensive WAR. These statistics suggest that Bregman might be the better fit at third base, but Devers’ determination to stay put complicates matters.

Exploring Options: Where Do Bregman and Devers Fit?

With Devers refusing to budge from third base, the Red Sox are left exploring alternative positions for Bregman. One possibility is shortstop, where Bregman has played 107 games in his career. However, Trevor Story is currently slated to start at shortstop on Opening Day. Both Bregman and Devers also have experience at second base, though that position is not yet set in stone. Another option could be first base, where Bregman has limited experience but could potentially adapt. Despite these possibilities, the situation remains fluid, and the Red Sox will need to carefully consider how to maximize the value of both players.

The Bigger Picture: Red Sox’s Commitment to Competing

The signing of Bregman is the latest indication that the Red Sox are serious about returning to contention in the short term. After a disappointing 2023 campaign, the team has made significant moves to revamp its roster, and Bregman’s arrival is a key part of that effort. However, the drama surrounding Devers’ position underscores the challenges of integrating high-profile signings into a clubhouse with established stars. For the Red Sox to succeed, they will need to navigate this situation smoothly and ensure that both Devers and Bregman are comfortable and productive in their roles.

Looking Ahead: A Crucial Spring Training for Boston

As the Red Sox move forward with spring training, all eyes will be on how the team manages the Devers-Bregman dynamic. The organization has made it clear that decisions will be made with the best interests of the team in mind, but Devers’ firm stance on playing third base adds a layer of complexity. With Bregman’s defensive prowess and Devers’ offensive production, the Red Sox have the potential to field one of the strongest infields in baseball—if they can find a way to make it work. This situation will undoubtedly be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch as the season approaches.