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The Boston Red Sox need a first base solution after Triston Casas’ season-ending surgery on his left patellar tendon. A popular idea among fans has been teaching Rafael Devers the position.
This would seemingly solve all of the Red Sox’s problems, as Devers could move into an everyday field position and free up a designated hitter space for Masataka Yoshida, once he is healthy.
However, there are a few problems with this notion. For one, Devers has never played first base in his nine-year MLB career or his minor league days. Secondly, Yoshida’s return date is unknown, and Boston needs an immediate fix.
Finally, Devers has been reluctant to answer questions about playing first, according to Chris Cotillo of Mass Live:
Even if Devers was some defensive wizard at third (which he isn’t), assuming he can suddenly learn how to play first feels idealistic. However, it is still telling that Devers is unwilling to discuss a transition. It marks another chapter in what has been a stubborn year defensively for the all-star.
Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers (11) hits a one-run double against the Toronto Blue Jays during the second inning at Rogers Centre.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
In spring training, Devers made it clear that third base was his position, and despite bringing in a far superior defender in Alex Bregman, he still wanted his old job.
Devers, who signed an 11-year, $331 million extension in January of 2023, could feel entitled to having things his way given that massive figure. On the other hand, he has brought his averages up to expected after a sluggish start at the plate. Maybe the emphasis on at-bats will lead to career highs this summer.
The Red Sox will now need to rely upon Romy Gonzalez, a career utility man, or perhaps Rob Refsnyder, who has made 36 appearances at first base in over 400 career games, to alleviate the loss of Casas.
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This would seemingly solve all of the Red Sox’s problems, as Devers could move into an everyday field position and free up a designated hitter space for Masataka Yoshida, once he is healthy.
However, there are a few problems with this notion. For one, Devers has never played first base in his nine-year MLB career or his minor league days. Secondly, Yoshida’s return date is unknown, and Boston needs an immediate fix.
Finally, Devers has been reluctant to answer questions about playing first, according to Chris Cotillo of Mass Live:
Even if Devers was some defensive wizard at third (which he isn’t), assuming he can suddenly learn how to play first feels idealistic. However, it is still telling that Devers is unwilling to discuss a transition. It marks another chapter in what has been a stubborn year defensively for the all-star.
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Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers (11) hits a one-run double against the Toronto Blue Jays during the second inning at Rogers Centre.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
In spring training, Devers made it clear that third base was his position, and despite bringing in a far superior defender in Alex Bregman, he still wanted his old job.
Devers, who signed an 11-year, $331 million extension in January of 2023, could feel entitled to having things his way given that massive figure. On the other hand, he has brought his averages up to expected after a sluggish start at the plate. Maybe the emphasis on at-bats will lead to career highs this summer.
The Red Sox will now need to rely upon Romy Gonzalez, a career utility man, or perhaps Rob Refsnyder, who has made 36 appearances at first base in over 400 career games, to alleviate the loss of Casas.
Related: Red Sox Make Garrett Crochet Announcement After Scary Incident on Sunday
Related: Red Sox Make Rafael Devers Announcement Amid Triston Casas’ Season-Ending Injury
Related: Red Sox Make Rafael Devers Announcement Amid Triston Casas’ Season-Ending Injury
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