Yardbarker
x
Former Red Sox Rafael Devers Continues to Cause Drama With Giants
Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

One of the main reasons the Boston Red Sox eventually traded Rafael Devers was his refusal to play first base. But, after being traded to the San Francisco Giants, there was a belief he'd try things out at first base.

But, according to Will Flemming on WEEI, Devers was invited to a first base workout with Giants legend Will Clark, and he didn't show up. 

"They don't yet know what is going to happen with the player," Flemming said. "I was there the second day, Will Clark was there to work on ground balls with him at first base, and Raffy didn't show up. That's the person  that these guys have been dealing with for a long time."

This new wrinkle further heightens the drama in what's already been a tumultuous 2025 season for Devers. He's refused to learn first base in Boston and is effectively refusing to learn first base in San Francisco.

Part of the Giants' plan was to eventually incorporate Devers into the starting first baseman role, with Wilmer Flores as the team's designated hitter.

But, with Devers being a no-show for this workout, it's looking like Flores will have to stick at first for the time being. Since joining the Giants, Devers hasn't been as good as he was in Boston.

He's batting .240 with 28 strikeouts and 12 walks, with a .735 OPS and two home runs across 20 games. It's been a lackluster trade for the Giants so far, and his refusal to learn first base further paints the trade in a negative light.

Devers was traded amid his first base drama in Boston, and now, that same drama is seemingly repeating on the other side of the United States. While he can still learn the position, this insight from Flemming doesn't help Devers get in the good graces of Red Sox or Giants fans.

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

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!