Rafael Devers, Red Sox could reach quick breaking point

What good is a designated hitter who can't hit? It's a question the Red Sox find themselves asking.

After being relieved of third-base duties this offseason, Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers has one job. And so far in 2025, he's failing miserably.

On Monday, Devers' horrific start to the 2025 season continued after the three-time All-Star went 0-of-3 with three strikeouts in an 8-5 loss to the Orioles (3-2).

Through five games, Devers has yet to record a hit, going 0-of-19 with 15 strikeouts. It's his longest hitless streak to begin a season in his nine-year career.

The two-time Silver Slugger Award winner entered the season with a career .278 batting average, starting 942 of 980 games at third base.

This offseason, the Red Sox (1-4) signed free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman. After initially refusing to move from his corner infield position, Devers relented during spring training and moved to designated hitter.

The shift made sense for the Red Sox. Devers was a liability as a fielder, leading the AL in third-base errors for seven consecutive seasons (2018-24). His 141 career errors are the most among active third basemen.

Moving Devers to DH, where he could focus on the one thing he's decent at, was a reasonable idea that hasn't worked out as planned.

The MLB season is a marathon, not a sprint, so Devers could still have an outstanding season. Just last year, he batted .188 through 13 games before ending 2024 with a .272 average.

However, his poor 2025 start continues his slump from late last year. In his last 36 games a season ago, Devers slashed .191/.279/.294, hitting three home runs and striking out 45 times in 136 at-bats. 

Batting second in Boston's lineup, Devers' lack of production is especially concerning. If it continues, the Sox will need to consider moving him down the order until he finds his form. Considering his reluctance to move from third despite it being in the team's best interest, we can't imagine that being an enjoyable conversation.

Devers and the Red Sox could soon reach a breaking point. If their designated hitter isn't recording hits, they'll have to find someone who will.