Former San Francisco Giants star Will Clark has dismissed the recent controversy involving designated hitter Rafael Devers as exaggerated and unnecessary. Speaking on KNBR with Brian Murphy and Markus Boucher on Friday, Clark addressed the public fallout stemming from a heated exchange with Red Sox announcer Will Flemming over Devers’ reported skipping of first base practice during the Giants-Red Sox series from June 20-22.
Clark acknowledges harsh words but confirms reconciliation with Flemming
Clark admitted to using strong language toward Flemming after Flemming publicly revealed a private conversation that criticized Devers’ reluctance to practice first base in front of the Boston dugout. Clark explained that both sides exchanged regrettable remarks but had since resolved the issue privately.
“I think that this story has gotten blown way out of proportion. I said some stuff that I shouldn’t have said. And also … Will Flemming said a few things as well. I have reached out to Will; we talked about it; we hashed it out. It’s going to be water under the bridge,”
Clark said.
Details on the conflict over Rafael Devers’ position and practice habits
Flemming had publicly stated on WEEI Sports Radio that Devers had not shown up for first base practice during the Giants’ early days hosting the former Red Sox slugger, suggesting the player opposed playing first base, as he apparently did in Boston. Flemming said,
“We were in San Francisco right after that trade happened. They don’t yet know what is going to happen with the player. I was there the second day. Will Clark was there to work on ground balls with him at first base, and Rafi didn’t show up. So that’s the person that these guys [the Red Sox] have been dealing with for a long time.”
However, that portrayal conflicts with statements from Giants manager Bob Melvin, who affirmed that Devers is expected to play first base after the MLB All-Star break. Devers himself expressed eagerness about assuming the first base role through his interpreter, saying he
“can’t wait to start playing [at first base].”
This contradicts the narrative Flemming promoted of a reluctant player.
Clark’s strong public response to Flemming’s remarks
In reply to Flemming’s comments, Clark did not hold back his frustration during an episode of his podcast Deuces Wild, which he co-hosts with former player Eric Byrnes. Clark said bluntly,
“Will Flemming, you can go f—k off, motherf—ker. You want to f—king take a conversation that we’re having and then blow it out of proportion because you’re a f—king East Coast piece of s—t reporter. F—k off.”
This sharp rebuke underscored the level of tension before the parties later settled their differences quietly.
The importance of moving past the conflict for Giants and their new star
Clark’s willingness to reconcile with Flemming signals an effort to end the distractions revolving around Rafael Devers’ adjustment to the Giants organization. The controversy has created unnecessary tension amidst the team’s early season challenges and public scrutiny. Devers, a three-time MLB All-Star acquired in a high-profile trade, remains a key figure for San Francisco’s future success. As Clark emphasized, letting the dispute become “water under the bridge” allows the Giants to focus on on-field performance and stronger team cohesion going forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Rafael Devers a good hitter?
A. Before reaching the age of 30, Devers has emerged as one of the top hitters among his peers. His performance ranks him alongside Hall of Famers Al Kaline and Dave Winfield.