On Friday, the owner of the Red Sox of Boston, John Henry, traveled personally with the head of Operations Craig Breslow and Sam Kennedy to meet with Rafael Devers, after the Dominican Slugger expressed his dissatisfaction with the team for having requested to play at the first base, after the injury of Triston Casas.
The situation exploded when Devers publicly affirmed be betrayed by the board:
“I don’t feel they stayed faithful to their word … They told me that I was going to play as DH and now they are going back.”
The meeting, which also was attended by manager Alex Cora, was qualified as “productive”, although Breslow clarified that there is still no specific plan for Devers to practice on the first base, although they will continue to evaluate the possibility.
It is not the first difference with the Dominican
It should be remembered that this is not the first time that Devers shows his discontent for position changes. During the low season, he was displaced to a batter designated after the signature of Alex Bregman, a third base with a gold glove, relegating Devers after years as a starting ante, where he accumulated 141 errors and -62 saved defensive races.
What is the best option for Rafael Devers if there is no agreement?
The best alternative for devers, in case a satisfactory solution with the Red Sox is not achieved, would be to request a change of equipment (Trade) towards a franchise that respects its desire to have a fixed role and avoid defensive transitions that may affect their performance and health.
And for the red socks?
From the point of view of the organization, if the relationship becomes unsustainable, exchange Devers for young talent and depth in the roster could benefit the reconstruction and improve the chemistry of the club, especially if the player is not willing to accept role changes for the good of the team.
Although the meetings seem to have reduced tensions, the lack of clarity in the roles and the history of disagreements between devers and management could lead to a separation. The future of both parties will depend on their ability to prioritize common interests over individuals.
