Boston.- After a spring filled with uncertainties and speculations, Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced on Wednesday in the WEEI program that Rafael Devers will occupy the position of designated hitter for the 2025 season.
Devers started the Opening Day as the designated hitter and second in the Boston lineup, although he failed to connect hits in 4 at-bat opportunities.
This change was not entirely unexpected, as the Red Sox made significant adjustments to their lineup for the season. At the beginning of the spring, they signed free agent Alex Bregman, assigning him to third base. Given Bregman’s superior defensive skills over Devers in this position, his incorporation raised doubts about Devers’ future role in third base.
The Opening Day showed Triston Casas at first base, Kristian Campbell at second, Bregman at third, and Trevor Story at shortstop, with Devers assuming the role of designated hitter.
This change also had effects on the outfield, assigning Jarren Durán to left field, Ceddanne Rafaela to center, and Wilyer Abreu to right. Meanwhile, Masataka Yoshida, who could have been the designated hitter, was sent to Triple-A to continue his rehabilitation, leaving his future with the team uncertain due to his three-year, $55.8 million contract.
The assignment of Devers as designated hitter marks a new chapter for the Red Sox in their effort to remain competitive for the 2025 season. This move reflects the versatility and alternatives that Boston has in its roster, with Bregman and Campbell playing key roles to strengthen the defense and lineup.
credit for images in this post: n.com.do
