Rafael Devers’ position dispute with the Boston Red Sox didn’t start publicly—it began quietly behind the scenes. Devers, once seen as the heart of the Red Sox offense, had already moved off third base to make room for high-profile acquisition Alex Bregman. Though he wasn’t entirely happy with the designated hitter role, he agreed to the change. But it wasn’t just a positional shift—it was the start of growing tension between Devers and team management.
Things escalated when first baseman Triston Casas was ruled out for the year. Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow asked Devers to move to first base to cover the void. Devers refused, which triggered serious debate among fans and within the organization. What began as a conversation about defense turned into a broader discussion on leadership, trust, and unity within the team.
Red Sox GM Craig Breslow must have a personal issue with Devers. He was asked if Roman Anthony could start playing first base in the minors, and he said Anthony has never played that position and wants to keep him where he feels comfortable.
But Devers hasn’t played that…
— Mike Rodriguez (@mikedeportes) May 9, 2025
Devers later confirmed the internal talks during a media session. According to him, he had been told during spring training that his glove would be “put away” and that he would remain solely a DH. Now, being asked to switch roles again didn’t sit well with him. Meanwhile, Breslow had also addressed whether prospect Roman Anthony could move to first base in the minors. He responded that Anthony had never played the position and the team preferred to let him develop where he’s most comfortable—an explanation that many found contradictory when compared to the request made to Devers.
The way Breslow handled the situation didn’t go unnoticed. He didn’t issue orders; he had a conversation. Fans picked up on the fact that he treated the situation respectfully and transparently. Yet, Devers’ refusal to help at first base left some questioning his willingness to put the team first.
Devers has since suggested that the front office find another solution rather than constantly repositioning him. His frustration with the situation is evident, particularly with how the team seems unsure about how to use him.
This situation has sparked mixed reactions among Red Sox supporters. Some believe Breslow is doing the best he can to keep the team functioning smoothly under tough circumstances. Others feel that Devers, as the supposed franchise cornerstone, should be more flexible—especially considering his $313.5 million contract. Critics argue that the position change from third to first isn’t a difficult transition and that Devers is being stubborn instead of showing leadership.
There’s also a sense that Devers is still upset about losing his third base role to Bregman. That emotional response, some fans believe, is affecting his willingness to help the team. In their view, the Red Sox may have made a mistake building the franchise around a player who isn’t showing a strong team-first mentality.
On the development side, some fans argue that trying to force a young player like Anthony into a new position too soon could hinder his growth. Devers, as a seasoned veteran, is more capable of adapting. Yet his defense has already declined at third base, and his refusal to adjust isn’t helping the club’s long-term plans.
In the end, this isn’t just about moving a player around the diamond. It’s about priorities, leadership, and the willingness to sacrifice for the good of the team. As the season progresses, the Red Sox will have to decide whether Devers can still be part of the solution—or if he’s become part of the problem.