**Rafael Devers Addresses Position Change Concerns with Red Sox**
Rafael Devers has had a challenging spring training with the Boston Red Sox, marked by apparent disagreements with manager Alex Cora regarding his role on the field. As the team prepared for Opening Day, Cora confirmed that Devers would primarily serve as the designated hitter. However, following a significant injury to first baseman Triston Casas, discussions arose about Devers potentially taking on first base duties, as reported by the New York Post. The three-time MLB All-Star, however, has firmly rejected this idea.
In a public response to the suggestion of switching positions, Devers referenced previous guidance from the Red Sox management, which had instructed him to focus solely on his DH role. “I know I’m a ballplayer, but at the same time, they can’t expect me to play every single position out there,” Devers stated through a translator, according to the Boston Globe. He emphasized that during spring training, he was told to set aside his glove and concentrate on hitting.
Devers expressed that the inquiry about a position change was inappropriate, stating, “So right now, I just feel like it’s not an appropriate decision by them to ask me to play another position.” He also questioned whether Craig Breslow, the team’s chief baseball officer, harbored any discontent towards him, noting, “I’m not certain what [issue] he has with me. He played ball, and I would like to think that he knows that changing positions like that isn’t easy.”
Despite these tensions, Devers affirmed his strong relationships with his teammates but expressed confusion over some decisions made by the front office. “I don’t understand some of the decisions that the GM makes. Next thing you know, someone in the outfield gets hurt, and they want me to play in the outfield,” he remarked.
Casas, who has played first base for the past four seasons, is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the year due to a knee injury. Devers suggested that the Red Sox should explore the free agent market for a solution at first base, stating, “Now I think they should do their job essentially and hit the market and look for another player [to play first base]. I’m not sure why they want me to be in between the way they have me now.”
Devers signed a lucrative $313.5 million contract with the Red Sox in January 2023 and finished the previous season with 28 home runs. So far this season, he has hit six home runs in 39 games.
**FAQ**
**Q: What position does Rafael Devers currently play for the Red Sox?**
A: Rafael Devers is currently serving as the designated hitter for the Boston Red Sox.
