The Boston Red Sox sent shockwaves across baseball Sunday night, trading Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants and shifting the course of their future.
Losing a middle-of-the-order bat is no small move. But the deal gives Boston something equally valuable — flexibility. It frees up roster space, lineup options and significant payroll, reshaping how the team can operate in both the short and long term.
Devers had been locked into the designated hitter role after refusing to shift defensively. With that spot now available, manager Alex Cora has options. The immediate opening in the lineup could fast-track Masataka Yoshida’s return, according to the Boston Globe’s Tim Healey. Though still limited in the field, Yoshida has been swinging freely and may rejoin the lineup as a DH, especially against right-handers.
More importantly, it clears room for Boston’s young core. Marcelo Mayer, Roman Anthony and Kristian Campbell no longer need to be rotated in around Devers’ at-bats. That trio is central to the team’s future, and now, the reps are theirs to claim. Even with Wilyer Abreu and Alex Bregman nearing returns, Cora can maintain a steady mix without forcing tough sacrifices.
Financially, the move gives chief baseball officer Craig Breslow flexibility ahead of the trade deadline. Devers’ remaining 2025 salary is gone, which could allow Boston to pursue reinforcements — whether a starter behind Garrett Crochet, a full-time first baseman or bullpen depth. With the Red Sox just a half-game out of the wild card, aggressive buying is now on the table.
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And then there’s the long game. Boston could explore extensions for young talent, or chase another franchise star. Bregman, Kyle Tucker or even future free agents like Tarik Skubal could be options if the fit is right.
In moving a franchise player, the Red Sox moved their franchise into a whole new position.