The Boston Red Sox made headlines Wednesday by announcing an eight-year, $130 million contract extension for infielder Roman Anthony, a deal that naturally drew comparisons to Rafael Devers’ massive $313.5 million contract signed prior to the 2023 season. Although Anthony and Devers were teammates for less than a week before Devers was traded to the San Francisco Giants on June 15, the connection between their contract situations was a topic of discussion, especially considering Devers’ prior role with the team.

Despite their brief overlap, the two players represent different stages in their careers, and the Red Sox’s management, represented by Executive Craig Breslow, made clear distinctions when asked about the relationship between Devers’ departure and Anthony’s new deal.

Trade Motivations and Organizational Culture Behind the Devers Move

The Red Sox have consistently framed Devers’ trade as a decision rooted in the team’s culture rather than purely financial reasons. At 28, Devers reportedly declined the organization’s request to shift positions, reportedly causing distraction within the clubhouse. This move was cited as a primary reason behind his trade, despite the team freeing up a substantial sum of $254.5 million in salary by moving him.

While it might be tempting to assume that the money saved from Devers’ departure directly facilitated Anthony’s extension, Breslow pushed back against that notion when questioned. During an exchange with the press, Breslow emphasized that the decisions were separate and driven by what is best for the team at the respective moments.

We felt like what was best for the organization at the time was to trade Raffy,

Breslow said, per Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe.

And today we thought that what was best for the organization is to come to an agreement to keep Roman in a Red Sox uniform for a really long time.

—Craig Breslow, Boston Red Sox Executive

The Legacy and Expectations Surrounding Rafael Devers and Roman Anthony

In Boston, Devers made a significant impact on the field. He was a three-time All-Star, played a key role in the 2018 World Series championship team, and hit 215 home runs in a Red Sox uniform, ranking 10th all-time in franchise history. Had he remained with Boston through the 2024 season, he could have moved into the top seven home run leaders for the team.

Despite Devers’ impressive contributions, the Red Sox view large contracts as calling for more than just athletic output. They believe players must align with organizational values and culture. The team feels that Roman Anthony, still early in his career, embodies these principles and is prepared to meet the responsibilities that a major contract demands.

Boston’s recent trajectory, contrasted with San Francisco’s direction following the trade, suggests the organization is confident in the choices it has made. Only time will reveal whether Anthony lives up to expectations and if the departure of Devers will prove beneficial in the long run.

Looking Ahead: The Red Sox’s Future with Roman Anthony

With Roman Anthony secured for the long term, the Red Sox appear focused on nurturing young talent who fit the team’s culture and vision. Anthony’s extension represents a commitment to this approach as Boston aims to build a competitive roster with players who embrace both performance and organizational values.

As the season progresses, the performance of Anthony and the overall impact of the Devers trade will be closely scrutinized by fans and analysts alike. These decisions could shape the Red Sox’s identity and success for years to come.