Red Sox’s Alex Cora Gives Candid Update On Star Rafael Devers
Red Sox star Rafael Devers is set to make his spring training debut against the Atlanta Braves.
Despite Devers recently expressing more openness to a potential position change, Red Sox manager Alex Cora has not yet confirmed where the three-time All-Star will play this season, according to The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey.
“We have a pretty good idea,” Cora said. “But let’s just let him play, see where we are, and see how the rest of the roster shapes up. We’ll make decisions when we make decisions. I want to see him on the field, so he’ll DH on Saturday. Then we’ll go from there in terms of his buildup and how we handle it.”
After the Red Sox signed Gold Glove third baseman Alex Bregman in February, Devers initially resisted the idea of changing positions. However, he later softened his stance, stating he’s willing to play wherever he can best help the team. Cora acknowledged Devers’ comments but didn’t provide specifics on their discussions.
“We just have to keep moving forward. He was clear—he expects a better season and wants this team competing for a World Series. That’s exactly what we want,” Cora said. “The conversations will remain private, but I was happy to see him smiling when he spoke with the media.”
“I think he was very honest with you all about how he felt,” Cora said. “He even mentioned feeling sad about what people thought of him. Like I said, time and conversations will help. He’s in a good place now and ready to play.”
Cora also confirmed that Devers will be ready for Opening Day. As for where he’ll play? That remains undecided.
