On Monday, manager Alex Cora told reporters Devers won’t be in Mexico for the Red Sox’s exhibition games against the Monterrey Sultans on March 24 and 25. Cora also said shortstop Trevor Story won’t make the trip as he continues to nurse a back injury.
Due to shoulder issues, Devers didn’t make his spring training debut until last Saturday. Per MLB.com’s Ian Browne, Cora said Devers will stay in Fort Myers, Florida, to work on his swing before joining his teammates in Texas for the start of the regular season.
The decision to keep Devers in Fort Myers probably doesn’t mean anything. He missed a lot of time in spring training and needs to get his timing back.
However, it’s hard not to think of recent reports about Devers considering a trade request amid his frustration with the Red Sox. Per MassLive’s Sean McAdam, Devers remains frustrated over Boston’s signing of Alex Bregman and lack of transparency during the offseason.
“Behind closed doors, (Devers) lets the Red Sox know, in no uncertain terms, that he’s still feeling aggrieved and disrespected,” McAdam wrote over the weekend. “Meanwhile, to the public, he is the dutiful employee, doing what he’s told to do.”
As of Monday morning, there wasn’t any reason to believe Devers wouldn’t be ready for the March 27 season opener against the Rangers.
Boston Red Sox gear up for Opening Day with Alex Bregman joining and Rafael Devers embracing a new role as designated hitter
Building a Formidable Lineup
The Boston Red Sox are shaping a competitive roster for Opening Day, evidencing a blend of fresh talent and strategic adjustments to maximize their on-field performance. The organization’s recent moves have not only bolstered their infield but also signaled a shift in player roles to better align with the team’s game plans.
New Roles and Key Additions
Alex Bregman’s arrival as a top free agent has infused additional stability into the team’s third base position. His established track record and experienced approach are expected to enhance the club’s overall offensive strategy. Occupying third base on Opening Day sets the stage for a season that leans on intelligent hitting and well-rounded defense.Strategic Position Change for a Trusted Slugger
Alongside Bregman’s induction, Rafael Devers embraced a long-anticipated change during spring training by stepping into the role of designated hitter. This transition reflects the team’s tactical recalibration, allowing Devers to focus on his considerable batting prowess while accommodating defensive adjustments elsewhere on the field. The move is seen as a calculated effort to maximize his impact at the plate and provide versatility in the overall lineup.
Looking Ahead
As the season approaches, these roster decisions underline the Red Sox’s commitment to integrating veteran experience with strategic innovation. With both Bregman and Devers assuming roles tailored to their strengths, the team is poised for a season where tactical flexibility and individual excellence are expected to drive success on the field.
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