Rafael Devers is making his first start at first base for the San Francisco Giants in Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves, marking a notable change since his trade from the Boston Red Sox. The Rafael Devers first base debut signals a new chapter for the three-time All-Star, who previously resisted moving away from his longtime third base position.
Trade Rooted in Disagreement Over Defensive Position
Devers’ reluctance to shift to first base was a major factor in the breakdown of his relationship with the Red Sox, eventually leading to his midseason trade to San Francisco. Boston had hoped he would be willing to take over first base after Triston Casas suffered a season-ending patellar injury. However, Devers was resistant to the change, especially after having shifted to designated hitter earlier in the season to make room for offseason signing Alex Bregman.
Even a meeting involving Red Sox owner John Henry failed to resolve the situation. Before facing his former team in June, Devers expressed feeling undervalued during the process.
“I put up some good numbers in Boston, and I feel like I earned some respect,”
he told reporters through his interpreter.
“If they would have asked me at the beginning of spring training, yes, I would have played [first].”
—Rafael Devers, San Francisco Giants player
Transition to First Base Expected to Continue with Giants
After joining the Giants, Devers began practicing at first base, leading to his debut at the position. Many experts have suggested that a permanent move to first base was likely for the slugger, given his inconsistent defense at third base and the natural decline expected as he ages. San Francisco is expected to make him their regular first baseman moving forward, an adjustment that could define his role for the remainder of his career.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers have?
A. By the close of the 2024 season, Devers was the active third baseman with the most career errors, totaling 141 over eight seasons. Among active third basemen with at least 500 games, he had the lowest fielding percentage at .944.
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers make?
A. By the end of the 2024 season, Devers ranked first in errors among active third basemen, with 141 over eight seasons. He also had the lowest fielding percentage (.944) among active third basemen who played at least 500 games.