What Red Sox Legend Manny Ramirez Said About Rafael Devers Trade

"Devers was humiliated [by the Red Sox],” Ramirez said via MLB insider Hector Gomez. “It's not about pride or ego. I think the team didn't respect him or communicate with him properly. I'm sure they didn't do that to Clemens. I can't imagine the Yankees telling Judge, 'Now we're moving you to catcher.'"

Unlike Ortiz, who spent the final 14 years of his career with Boston, Ramirez is coming from a unique perspective. Despite endearing himself to the fans during two World Series victories, Ramirez’s erratic behavior led to an unceremonious and bitter departure from Boston at the 2008 trade deadline. He knows how quickly a lack of communication can derail an otherwise remarkable tenure.

While many details led to Devers being traded, miscommunication seems to be the prevailing issue. Whether it be the inciting incident of Boston signing Alex Bregman to Devers’ chagrin, or his refusal to play first base after starter Triston Casas suffered a season-ending injury, neither party was on the same wavelength.

Now living in the aftermath of the deal, Ortiz and Ramirez represent the dueling sides of the fanbase. Ortiz, a Red Sox through and through, is taking the organization’s side, while Ramirez, experiencing Devers’ frustration in his stint with the Red Sox, empathizes with the player.

Whenever a star player is traded, the instant response is to place blame. Is it a merciless front office trying to save a penny, or a disgruntled player who forced his way out? In this case, it may be a bit of both.