Devers forgets Boston: New beginning with Giants and key role in San Francisco

SCOTTSDALE, Arizona. Dominican Rafael Devers begins his spring training with the San Francisco Giants, marking a significant contrast to the atmosphere experienced in his last camp with the Boston Red Sox in 2025. A year ago, Devers faced uncertainty about his position on the field after Alex Bregman’s arrival at the Red Sox. Although he initially wanted to stay at third base, he ended up taking on the designated hitter role. The situation became complicated when he refused to play first base after Triston Casas’ injury, which preceded his transfer to San Francisco in June.

New Stage as an Initialist

With the Giants, Devers took on the challenge of first base and played 28 games as a starter in that position during 2025. Now, with a contract in effect until 2033, he is emerging as the club’s main first baseman.

I feel very good. I worked on what I needed to be ready at first base and I am comfortable.

Rafael Devers

Boston’s president, Tom Werner, called the player’s refusal to defend the initial at the time “discouraging.” Devers, however, avoided going into detail on the matter. “That’s in the past. My focus is here,” he stated. He also declined to comment on Bregman, who later signed with the Chicago Cubs.

Confidence in Offensive Potential

In 90 games with San Francisco last season, Devers hit .236 with an OPS of .807 and 20 home runs. The team hopes that, with a full season and stability in his defensive role, he can raise his offensive production. Manager Tony Vitello highlighted the impact his presence has on the lineup. “He’s a hitter who changes the opponent’s planning and improves those around him,” he noted. The Giants’ offense will also feature figures like Willy Adames, Matt Chapman, Heliot Ramos, Luis Arráez, and Harrison Bader, forming a lineup that, according to Devers himself, “can compete with anyone”. Meanwhile, the team is also evaluating the development of their top prospect, Bryce Eldridge, another left-handed option for the initial. Devers assured that the young man deserves the opportunity to demonstrate his talent in the Major Leagues. Although not defined as a vocal leader, the Dominican has assumed an active role within the clubhouse, sharing experience and motivating his teammates.

I always try to bring positive things and help with the small details.

Rafael Devers

Installed in a new professional stage, Devers leaves behind the controversy and focuses his energy on consolidating himself as a key player in San Francisco for the 2026 season.