Rafael Devers made his much-anticipated debut at the first base position on Tuesday, delivering a smooth and error-free performance for the San Francisco Giants in their game against the Atlanta Braves. This milestone also came with a subtle jab at his former team, the Boston Red Sox, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding his position change and trade. The Rafael Devers first base debut marks a significant moment in his career as he adjusts to a new role while striving to regain top form.
Devers’ Transition to First Base and Subtle Message to Red Sox
Devers’ shift to first base followed a complicated relationship with the Boston Red Sox, where his standing as a premier third baseman was challenged earlier in the year. The Red Sox, after signing Gold Glove winner Alex Bregman, asked Devers to surrender his position and accept the role of designated hitter, a request he initially resisted before reluctantly accepting. His reluctance extended to playing first base when an injury to teammate Triston Casas provided an opportunity, which Devers declined.
Shortly after a dominant series sweep of the New York Yankees, the Red Sox traded Devers to the San Francisco Giants, where he declared his readiness to take on the first base position. During his debut, he played flawlessly, contributing to the Giants’ commanding 9-0 victory that snapped their six-game losing streak and improved their season record to 53-49.
Reflecting on his experience in the new role, Devers expressed his enthusiasm for staying active on the field rather than confined to the batting cage.
“I felt very comfortable. I’ve been practicing for a while. It’s really good that I was able to get out there, but most importantly, we won the game. It keeps me active, and it keeps my head out of just thinking of the next at-bat. I’m the kind of player who likes to be active and likes to be on the field. I’d rather be on the field than be in the cage hitting all the time.”
—Rafael Devers, through interpreter Erwin Higueros
Reports and Reactions: Devers Avoided 1st Base Practice with Ex-Teammates
Prior to this debut, rumors circulated that Devers had skipped a first base workout during the Giants’ recent visit to Boston, where former Giants star Will Clark was present. Clark offered an explanation, suggesting Devers was hesitant to try the new position in front of his former teammates. This insight hinted at the lingering discomfort Devers may have felt about his role changes and departure from the Red Sox organization.
Statistical Snapshot: Devers’ Adjustment to San Francisco and Season Performance
The trade sending Devers to the Giants shocked many in the MLB community given his stature and ongoing contract. Boston received four players in exchange, while the Giants assumed Devers’ substantial contract. In the 73 games Devers played for Boston this season, he maintained a .272 batting average, with 15 home runs and 58 RBIs. However, his performance has declined since joining San Francisco, where in 30 games, he posted a .227 average with only 2 home runs and 11 RBIs.
For the entire 2024 season, Devers’ combined stats stand at a .259 average, 17 home runs, and 69 RBIs over 103 games. His adjustment period in San Francisco has coincided with a slump for the Giants, who hold a 12-18 record since acquiring Devers, contrasting with the Red Sox’s 17-13 winning record over the last 30 games. This downturn for the Giants also marks a shift in momentum within their National League East competition.
Broader Implications of Devers’ New Role and Trade Impact
Devers’ successful first base debut signals a pivotal phase in his career as he totes the responsibility of adapting to a new defensive role while seeking a resurgence at the plate. His preference to remain on the field rather than solely focus on hitting emphasizes his competitive nature and desire to contribute in multiple facets. The Giants’ decision to utilize him at first base suggests a strategic move to maximize his talents while managing their roster needs.
Meanwhile, the trade’s aftermath reveals contrasting fortunes for both franchises. The Red Sox appear to have found renewed success without Devers, while the Giants face the challenge of integrating a key player whose performance has yet to reach previous heights. How Devers continues to adjust and perform could heavily influence the Giants’ playoff hopes and the overall trajectory of his career going forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers have?
A. By the conclusion of the 2024 season, Devers had made more errors (141 in eight seasons) than any other active third baseman. Among third basemen with at least 500 games, he also had the lowest fielding percentage (.944).
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers make?
A. By the close of the 2024 season, Devers ranked highest for errors among current third basemen with a total of 141 over eight seasons. Among those who played at least 500 games, he also had the lowest fielding percentage, standing at .944.