Rafael Devers has recently taken to playing first base during his debut with the San Francisco Giants, marking a notable change from his previous role as a designated hitter (DH). This unexpected return to the field has stirred strong emotions among Boston Red Sox fans, who remember his earlier refusal to play first base while with their team.
Devers’ sudden acceptance of a defensive position contrasts sharply with his public stance during his time in Boston, where he insisted on remaining strictly in the DH role. This shift has caused frustration among Red Sox supporters, who feel conflicted about his newfound willingness to play first base with the Giants.
Public Remarks Ignite Response From Boston Supporters
Justice delos Santos of the San Jose Mercury News quoted Devers expressing his preference for active field play:
“I’m the kind of player that likes to be active, that likes to be on the field. I’d rather be on the field than in the cage hitting all the time just thinking about the next at-bat.”
—Justice delos Santos, San Jose Mercury News
Many Boston fans recall Devers’ reluctance to take on a defensive role after the Red Sox acquired Alex Bregman and moved him off third base. His insistence on focusing mainly as a DH during the recent season contributed to the irritation his remarks have now caused.
Giants Gain Tactical Advantage With Devers’ Flexibility
For the Giants, Devers’ adaptability offers significant strategic benefits. His ability to cover first base opens new lineup possibilities, enabling manager to utilize Wilmer Flores as the DH. Flores had proven his effectiveness in this role before Devers’ arrival, and shifting him allows the Giants to maximize offensive potential.
This added versatility could also influence playing time for other players, as Devers secures a more prominent defensive role. The Giants hope that this benefit strengthens their roster as they push toward the postseason.
Devers Finds New Momentum Following All-Star Break
Since the All-Star break, Devers has shown impressive form, registering ten hits in six games, including two doubles and a pair of home runs against the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday. This stretch of strong performance marks a turnaround from earlier struggles after joining the Giants.
His revitalized hitting and willingness to play in the field signal growing commitment and value for the team. Giants fans will be hoping Devers maintains this level of play as the season progresses, since his production will be essential to their hopes of playoff contention.
Fan Reactions and Future Implications
While Boston fans remain displeased with Devers’ change of heart regarding his role on the field, Giants supporters are likely to appreciate this shift as a sign of his increased teamwork and dedication. Devers’ newfound versatility at first base could have a meaningful impact on the remainder of the season for San Francisco.
As the Giants adapt their lineup around Devers, his performance and positional flexibility could prove crucial as they seek to capitalize on their postseason opportunity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers have?
A. By the end of the 2024 season, Devers had the most career errors among current 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.
Q. How many errors did Rafael Devers make?
A. By the end of the 2024 season, Devers had made more career errors than any other active third baseman, totaling 141 in eight years. Among active third basemen with at least 500 games played, he also had the lowest fielding percentage at .944.