The Boston Red Sox appear to have made one of the last decisions with their roster today. The drama from the early portion of Spring Training appears to have settled, and the team is ready to make one last tweak to the lineup.
Alex Cora went on the radio today with WEEI and made an official decision on Rafael Devers. The Red Sox third baseman has sort of been in limbo between the addition of Alex Bregman and his lingering shoulder issues.
But that debate and uncertainty have been put to rest, as Devers will be the primary designated hitter for the Red Sox in 2025.
Alex Cora @WEEI w/ @WEEIAfternoons on Rafael Devers: "Alex [Bregman] is going to play third, Raffy's going to DH. We all are in the winning business. He understands that."
— Ken Laird (@KenLairdWEEI) March 26, 2025
Devers started a fire in the Red Sox' camp when he made it pretty clear that he thought he was the third baseman. That led to rumors and talks of a possible trade out of Boston. That quickly settled the next time Devers spoke publicly about the situation.
But from a purely statistical standpoint, it just makes more sense for the Red Sox to have Bregman at the hot corner. He has put up far better numbers, and they are hoping he sticks around past this season.
Bregman signed a $120 million contract with the Red Sox this offseason, but he can opt out after this year. That leaves Boston with the difficult task of trying to get him to stick around or sign a better deal after the 2025 season.
Getting him into his natural position is a good way to ensure that can happen.
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