The Boston Red Sox made a splash by signing Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million deal. The move created some controversy when Rafael Devers said he would not change positions at the start of spring training. However, Devers has since then changed his stance.
“We spoke already, and I’m good to do whatever they want me to do,” Devers told MLB.com on March 13. “I’m here to help. I’ve already spoken with them about that and they know where I stand, but I’m just ready to play.”
Manager Alex Cora has not named a starting third baseman yet, but he did reveal that Devers likely would not play third base this spring, according to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo. While this does not rule Devers out from playing third base when the season starts, it could point to Bregman starting as the team’s third baseman.
Devers has played in just two spring training games, both as a designated hitter. He has dealt with some shoulder problems that delayed his spring debut. He will not be traveling with the team to Mexico for their exhibition games against Monterrey Sultans either.
MassLive’s Sean McAdam recently revealed that Devers considered requesting a trade. His name has been popping up in trade rumors even though he has publicly changed his stance on being the team’s designated hitter. Cora’s revelation that he will not appear at third base this spring could add more fuel to trade speculation as opening day nears.
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