Just days after a stunning blockbuster trade, Rafael Devers officially rolled into San Francisco and made it clear: Boston is behind him.
At his introductory press conference at Oracle Park, the 28-year-old slugger—fresh off a nine-year run in Boston—said he’s focused on winning and fully committed to the Giants’ mission.
“That’s in the past now—I’m looking ahead and focusing on what I have here being a San Francisco Giant,” Devers told reporters.
🧩 What Went Wrong in Boston
Devers entered the 2025 season as the final cornerstone of Boston’s 2018 title team. But behind the scenes, his relationship with the Red Sox eroded over position changes:
- Pushed by the team to switch from third base to DH (after Alex Bregman’s arrival) and again to first base—changes Devers resisted.
- During spring training, the shift to DH caused tension. When asked to move to first while recovering from teammate Casas’ injury, Devers labored against the proposal—ultimately declining.
- The tussle escalated: Boston executives, including John Henry and Craig Breslow, flew to Kansas City to address the rift.
Within weeks, the deal was struck: Devers to the Giants; in exchange, the Red Sox received Jordan Hicks, Kyle Harrison, and two prospects.
🌉 A Warm Welcome in the Bay Area
In San Francisco, the atmosphere couldn’t be more positive:
- Devers confirmed he’s ready to play wherever the Giants need him—MH or first base—with Buster Posey calling him a “dude” who elevates teammates.
- He grinned next to Barry Bonds, his childhood hero, noting that simply being around Bonds already “improved” his game.
- Manager Bob Melvin outlined a gradual plan: use Devers primarily as DH while adding first-base reps over time.
🥇 What This Means for San Francisco
Devers injects the Giants with:
- Massive left-handed power—he’s already at 15 HR and 58 RBI this season.
- A rebuilt sense of ambition under Posey’s leadership, signaling San Francisco is swinging for the fences again.
- Long-term alignment: The Giants are taking on the remaining ~$250 million of Devers’ record contract—clearly committed to his presence.
If Devers settles into a consistent role, fans in Oracle Park can expect major fireworks.
🔭 What Lies Ahead
- Debut: Scheduled as DH batting third tonight against the Guardians.
- Position future: Will he stay DH, move to first base, or eventually rotate? With Chapman injured, the flexibility is welcome.
- Boston’s next steps: Red Sox leadership says this trade shows focus on long-term culture and flexibility, not a surrender.