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Red Sox Trade Idea Lands Perfect Solution After Rafael Devers' Comments

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jon Conahan | Last updated May 9, 2025 3:00 PM ET

If any Boston Red Sox fans had any hope of Rafael Devers playing first base after Triston Casas’ season-ending injury, don't get your hopes up too high.

Devers has stated multiple times that he has no interest in playing first base for the Red Sox, and even made some ridiculous comments about the front office.

While that's concerning in its own way, the Red Sox can't worry about it too much. They need to go out and make a move for a first baseman after this injury, and there could be one available in the form of Ryan O'Hearn, the Baltimore Orioles' left-handed hitting veteran.

Andrew Wright of Newsweek believes the Red Sox will be one of the four teams interested in him, which makes complete sense after the injury to Casas.

“Much like the other two players on the list, O'Hearn would be a rental if he's moved, as he is set to be a free agent after the season ends.

“His average is first one the team and his seven home runs tie him with Mullins for the team lead. If he is made available, there are several teams who could use another left-handed bat in their lineup. The Red Sox, Giants, Reds and Rangers should all be interested in acquiring him,” he explained.

O'Hearn has played better than ever to start the 2025 campaign, posting a 176 OPS+ and hitting seven home runs with four doubles.

He's shown some flashes of power throughout his career, but hasn't consistently hit home runs at a high level. Outside of 2024, however, he's yet to play in more than 112 games in a season.

If the Red Sox could give him consistent at-bats, there could be a scenario where he hits 20-plus home runs in a season.

For what should be a relatively cheap price due to hitting free agency at the end of the year, this could be something that the Red Sox are interested in if the Orioles are willing to move O'Hearn to a team in the American League East.

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

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