Rafael Devers made his much-anticipated debut with the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, just two days after being traded from the Boston Red Sox, ending his nine-year tenure with the team. Batting third in the lineup as the designated hitter, Devers went 2-for-5, contributing one RBI despite the Giants’ narrow 3-2 loss to the Cleveland Guardians.
Devers Shares His Feelings After First Game with New Team
During his first at-bat, Devers experienced a mix of nerves and excitement due to an unexpected ovation from Giants fans. He reflected on the moment, saying,
“My first at-bat I was a little bit nervous because of the ovation from the fans, because I wasn’t expecting that,”
according to the Associated Press. He added,
“Nervous but very happy, and afterward I felt more comfortable and it was great to see the fans welcoming me that way.”
Open to Playing Multiple Roles with Giants
Although Devers debuted as the designated hitter, he expressed a willingness to adapt to the Giants’ needs. Speaking through his translator, he stated,
“I’m happy to be here with the San Francisco Giants,”
and pledged,
“I will give my 100% effort around the field.”
He also emphasized his flexibility by saying,
“They’re the men in charge. I’m here to play wherever they want me to play.”
Manager Bob Melvin Comments on Devers’ Role
Giants manager Bob Melvin explained the team’s plan for Devers, noting that he would split time between designated hitter duties and first base. He said before the game,
“He’s gonna DH today, he’s gonna hit in the three spot.”
Melvin continued,
“We’re gonna work him in and get him some ground balls at first to make sure he’s comfortable before we put him there. That’s pretty much the way we look at it right now. A little bit of DH and a little bit of first.”
Background on Position Changes and Giants’ Current Roster
Devers had previously resisted moving to first base with the Red Sox earlier this season after Triston Casas, the team’s first baseman, suffered a season-ending knee injury. With the Giants, former Red Sox infielder Dominic Smith has been covering first base. On Tuesday, Smith went 1-for-5 with an RBI and one strikeout during the same game.
Implications for Giants’ Season Moving Forward
Rafael Devers debut with San Francisco Giants marks a significant shift for both the player and the team, as the Giants attempt to integrate a powerful hitter into their lineup while managing position adjustments. Devers’ willingness to adapt and manager Melvin’s cautious approach with his fielding role suggest that the Giants are aiming for a smooth transition. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Devers’ presence influences the team’s offensive dynamics in the upcoming games and the remainder of the season.