Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony experienced his first major league clubhouse on June 9 during his debut against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he went 0-4 with an RBI groundout. Just six days later, the Red Sox shook their roster by trading Rafael Devers, their most productive hitter, to the San Francisco Giants in a deal involving two major-league pitchers and two minor league prospects.
This sudden shift forced Anthony, among the newest members of the team, to cope with the departure of a key clubhouse presence early in his MLB career. The trade significantly changed the dynamics in the Red Sox clubhouse, creating a leadership void that the team hopes will soon be filled by emerging young stars like Anthony himself.
Roman Anthony Reflects on Rafael Devers’ Influence
Reflecting on his brief time with Devers, Anthony expressed deep admiration for the veteran player’s work ethic and skill. He praised Devers as a “generational” hitter whose daily routines and dedication made a lasting impression on him.
I got to know him a little bit last year and spent time with him in camp this year. He was always great to me. He was always great to watch,
Anthony shared with Mercury News’ Cam Inman.
Obviously, when you have a hitter who’s generational like him, it’s great and you learn from watching him. You watch their routines. You watch how on-point they are with everything they do, how good his cage work is and everything he does. It’s no mistake why he is as good as he is.
New Leadership Roles Emerging After Devers Trade
Following the trade, the Red Sox have shifted their focus toward building a future around their young core. The organization is betting that Roman Anthony, along with third baseman Marcelo Mayer and second baseman Kristian Campbell, will soon grow into leadership roles within the team’s clubhouse and on the field.
Though Anthony has faced challenges adapting to major league pitching, currently batting .111 with one home run and five RBIs over 36 at-bats, his talent and potential remain promising. The team’s belief in his ability to develop mirrors the impact Devers had during his Boston tenure.
Looking Ahead: The Red Sox’s Path Forward
The departure of Rafael Devers marks a turning point for the Red Sox as they embrace a new chapter focused on youth and future competitiveness. Roman Anthony’s early experiences, shaped by observing players like Devers, are preparing him to take on more responsibility as a leader. This transition signals an optimistic outlook for the franchise’s development and the emergence of fresh talent set to become foundational contributors.