Navigating a Tough Choice: The Red Sox’s Third Base Dilemma
The Boston Red Sox find themselves in a bit of a pickle this spring training, and it’s one that’s dominating the conversation among fans and analysts alike. After securing Alex Bregman with a flashy three-year, $120 million contract, the team now faces a challenging dilemma: how to handle the third base position with two elite players vying for the spot.
At the center of this predicament is Rafael Devers, who has made it abundantly clear that he’s unwilling to explore a designated hitter role. When posed with the question about the possibility of shifting to DH before the first spring training game, the three-time All-Star shot down the notion with a definitive “No.” To him, third base is his territory, and his stance is as firm as his powerful swing.
This situation is becoming quite the soap opera for the Red Sox, especially with Manager Alex Cora weighing in. When asked about the assurances made to Devers by former chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom regarding his position, Cora emphasized a shift in leadership, hinting that past promises might not hold water in the current regime with Craig Breslow now at the helm. “Different people here…there’s a different leader here,” he stated, signaling that the team’s direction is evolving.
The Case for Rafael Devers
Devers has been a cornerstone of the Red Sox since his MLB debut in 2017, playing a pivotal role in the team’s 2018 World Series triumph. With a career batting average of .279 and two Silver Slugger awards under his belt, he has established himself as a formidable offensive force. His track record suggests that he thrives in the hot corner, having struggled in limited attempts at second base and shortstop—making a combined three appearances in those positions over the last few seasons without any errors to show for it. However, it’s clear that his true calling is at third base, where his 6-foot, 235-pound frame is an ideal fit for the demands of the position.
Cora has acknowledged that having two outstanding players competing for the same spot is not a negative dilemma to grapple with. “I think having really good players that are talking about positions is not a terrible place to be in… These things tend to have a way of working themselves out,” says Breslow, indicating that the team believes resolution, while perhaps tricky, is possible.
The Case for Alex Bregman
On the other hand, Bregman enters the picture as a highly skilled defender who holds a significant edge in errant throws, having committed only 93 errors in his nine-year career compared to Devers’ 141. Last season, he further solidified his defensive prowess by earning the AL Gold Glove award at third base. Should the team decide to place Bregman at the hot corner, Devers would inevitably find himself without a clear position, potentially relegating him to a DH role.
It’s worth noting that the Red Sox have a storied history with effective designated hitters, with David Ortiz being the most iconic example. Ortiz carved out a legendary career primarily as a DH, playing in only 278 games in the field throughout his time with the Red Sox. The prospect of Devers following a similar path could mean a powerful bat remains in the lineup while bolstering the team’s defensive capabilities.
Starting Bregman also opens the door for more fluid roster decisions regarding younger talent. Players like Ceddanne Rafaela, who showcased his skills predominantly in the outfield, could transition to second base, allowing the organization to make room for top prospect Roman Anthony. Should Anthony make his debut soon, the infield could feature an exciting mix of Triston Casas, Rafaela, Trevor Story, and Bregman, with a robust outfield filled with emerging talents while Devers retains his offensive position as DH.
Conclusion
As the Red Sox grapple with this third base conundrum, the stakes for both players and the team’s overall success are palpable. The decisions made in the coming days could not only shape the dynamics of the infield but also influence the lineup’s overall potency as the season progresses. Whatever the outcome, the Red Sox will need to find a path forward that respects both Devers’ commitment to his role and Bregman’s undeniable defensive talents. It’s a compelling narrative playing out in Fenway, one that fans will undoubtedly watch closely as it unfolds.
