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Boston Red Sox Position Preview: Third Base

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andrew Wright | Last updated Feb 25, 2025 12:50 PM ET

In case anyone was unaware, Rafael Devers plays third base for the Boston Red Sox. Devers made it abundantly clear that he had no intentions of moving to first base or designated hitter after the team signed Alex Bregman.

Devers will play third base nearly every day for the Red Sox and will only DH when he needs a day off from being in the field. On those days when he does DH, it is expected that Bregman will shift over from second to third, and one of Boston's backup infielders will get a rare appearance in the lineup.

Offensively, Devers is one of the best third basemen in baseball. He was among the top five in nearly every offensive category, including being in the top two in walks, slugging percentage, on-base percentage, and OPS.

Defensively, it is a different story, as Devers is among the league's worst third basemen. Devers finished the 2024 season with 12 errors and -9 defensive runs saved (DRS), both of which were bottom five among qualified third basemen.

Bregman's defensive numbers are the exact opposite of those of the defensive numbers. He is considered one of the best third basemen in baseball. Bregman won his first Gold Glove Award in 2024 and will now have to move from the position where he won it.

If Devers struggles to begin the season, it would not be surprising if manager Alex Cora moved Bregman to third base.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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