The Boston Red Sox started spring training on a decidedly awkward note.
After the initial elation of the Alex Bregman signing, a new fear struck: How will Rafael Devers handle a potential demotion?
The talented third baseman was never fading in Boston’s lineup, of course, but there was plenty of speculation about which position Devers might transition to after Bregman’s arrival. The latter is an accomplished, Gold Glove-level defender. Devers, for all his prodigious ability at the plate, has never been anywhere close to league average in the field. In fact, he’s one of the worst defenders in the sport. Period.
Bregman took third base reps in his first spring practice with Boston, which set off a media firestorm. Is Devers a second baseman now? A DH? When he was asked explicitly about the possibility of Bregman taking over the hot corner, Devers appeared shocked and appalled He said, bluntly, “no.” He would not accept a move to DH, and he even left the door open for a trade.
That all feels like ages ago. The immediate panic has since subsided, and the vibes around the Red Sox are much sunnier. Bregman does indeed appear destined to handle third base duties moving forward, but Devers has changed his tune about a move to the DH slot. He just wants to be a good teammate.
“I just want to help the team win. Whatever position I’m playing, I always take these things as a competition and as a way to get better.”
