Rafael Devers preferred to stay at third base even after the Red Sox signed Alex Bregman, the 2024 AL Gold Glove winner at the position, in free agency from the Astros. Manager Alex Cora named Bregman the everyday third baseman, shifting Devers—Boston’s primary third baseman for the past eight years and a three-time All-Star—to designated hitter.
Since the switch, Devers has struggled to adjust. Following an 0-for-3 performance with an RBI and a walk in an 8-5 loss to the Mariners on Wednesday, his batting average has dropped to .202 with just two home runs in 94 at-bats. Still, he’s shown strong plate discipline, leading the American League with 21 walks.
Given his career .278 average and 33-homer pace per 162 games, there’s optimism he’ll rebound soon. However, despite signing a 10-year, $313.5 million extension in 2023, Devers could grow more dissatisfied with his new role. According to Newsweek’s Andrew Wright, the Chicago Cubs may pursue Devers at the trade deadline if he becomes available or asks to be moved.
Wright suggested pairing Devers with Kyle Tucker in the lineup would create a dangerous offensive combo. With top prospect Matt Shaw recently sent back to Triple-A and no firm starter at third base, the Cubs could offer Devers a return to everyday third base duties—at least temporarily. However, any trade would likely require a significant return from Chicago, possibly including Shaw and other top prospects.
