Rafael Devers has been a cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox lineup for years, celebrated for his powerful bat and consistent presence. However, a recent wave of injuries and shifting priorities has put Devers at the center of an intense discussion: Should he switch positions to fill the void at first base?

The Catalyst: Triston Casas' Injury

The drama began when Triston Casas, the starting first baseman, suffered a season-ending knee injury. The Red Sox were suddenly without a clear replacement. Initially, utility players Romy González and Abraham Toro took over at first base. Their experience, however, raised doubts about long-term stability at this crucial position. Naturally, many began to wonder if Rafael Devers might step in to help his team, given his status as a team leader and veteran presence.

Devers Responds to Position Change Requests

Despite speculation, Devers made it clear he wasn’t interested in switching to first base. In a frank discussion with reporters, Devers expressed disappointment after being asked to play first following an offseason move to designated hitter. He explained that the front office told him he would only need to focus on hitting this year. According to an MLB Trade Rumors report, Devers said, "I’m a ballplayer, but at the same time, they can’t expect me to play every single position out there."

Manager Alex Cora has kept his options open. While he originally said there were no plans to ask Devers to field first base, he recently acknowledged that circumstances could force a reevaluation. Cora told the Boston Globe, "Obviously, things might change… Let’s give them a chance, see what happens, and then if it doesn’t work out… we’ll look for other avenues."

External Solutions on the Table

If Devers is holding firm, external options may become more attractive. Veteran players like Anthony Rizzo have been discussed as potential targets. Rizzo, a former top prospect for Boston, would offer glove experience and leadership, although his recent offensive numbers suggest his best days might be behind him. Fans and analysts are intrigued by the full-circle narrative if Rizzo returned to Fenway. For a deeper dive on possible replacements, this NESN article explores the reunion rumors and explains why Rizzo’s left-handed glove could matter more than meets the eye.

What This Means for the Red Sox and Devers

The Devers-first base debate reflects broader changes within the Red Sox organization. After years locked in at third base, Devers was moved to a full-time designated hitter role. This winter saw the club bring in Alex Bregman, making his former spot less certain. A nine-figure contract ties Devers to Boston through 2033, but tension between player and management has occasionally spilled into public view. Still, Devers continues to contribute at the plate, with numbers that few clubs would be eager to part with.

How the Red Sox resolve this position puzzle may define their 2025 season. Will the club stay the course with internal solutions? Might Devers change his mind or will Boston turn to outside help?

Looking Ahead: Unfolding Storylines to Watch

For now, Rafael Devers looks set to remain a designated hitter. The Red Sox will monitor Romy González and Abraham Toro at first base, at least until the trade market takes shape. Devers’ steadfastness may be unusual in today’s game, but his honesty and focus on what's best for himself and the team will keep this an ongoing story throughout the year.

As the clubhouse grapples with change, Red Sox fans can expect more twists ahead. Whether Devers ever takes the field at first base—or if management brings in players like Rizzo—remains to be seen. Until then, Boston will rely on Devers’ bat as they push forward in a challenging season.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Red Sox and Rafael Devers navigate the road ahead.