Rafael Devers Responds To Red Sox’s DH Decision

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Rafael Devers Responds To Red Sox’s DH Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sam Bernardi | Last updated Mar 27, 2025 1:45 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox ruffled a few feathers when they brought in Alex Bregman this offseason.

It’s not because Bregman is not a talented hitter and defender, but rather because of that. The move has forced Rafael Devers, the team’s old everyday third baseman, into a designated hitter role.

It was unclear how Devers would respond, particularly given his insistence on keeping his position at the hot corner. However, Devers recently revealed that the switch has not changed his approach at the plate.

Here’s what he told Rob Bradford of Audacy Sports:

“I’m ready to start the season. I’m feeling good… No difference (in preparing for at-bats as a DH). I have the same sequence that I always do to go out there and hit. Nothing changes… I’m excited to get going. Spring training is way too long.”

Devers, who has been in the top 18 of American League MVP voting in five of the last six seasons, never received his recognition because of his defense. Bregman, meanwhile, is one of the better defensive fives in the league and earned the Gold Glove award last year as a member of the Houston Astros.

There is no doubt that Devers is among the elite bats in MLB, and he could experience career-high numbers across the board with hitting as his sole priority.

His career 162-game averages of 33 home runs, 105 RBIs, a .279 batting average, and a .856 OPS are incredible for any position player, and now that he does not have to worry about the defensive side of the ball, expect those to be a baseline for 2025.

Whether or not Devers has truly accepted his new job, it’s encouraging for Red Sox fans to hear that his approach has not changed. Plus, all of these worries can disappear with a good start to the season and a happy, winning clubhouse.

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

More must-reads: