When the Boston Red Sox shuffle their lineup like a deck of cards, not everyone ends up with a winning hand. David Ortiz, the Big Papi himself, has weighed in with a verdict that demands attention, especially as Rafael Devers wrestles with first base like it’s a Rubik’s Cube. The Sox’s dilemma isn’t just about positions; it’s about preserving what really matters.
Devers has become another name for controversy this season. From the offseason until now, he has been in the spotlight for one reason or another, and this time, it might not be his mistake. Somebody had to clear things up and give a clear message to the Red Sox, and that job was taken by Big Papi himself.
In his recent interview, Ortiz talked about Devers and the whole infamous situation with the Red Sox organization. He said, “He was a third baseman who was asked to be a DH. Now, all of a sudden, you want him to play first base. I guess you had to give him some time for him to learn if he wanted to because he’s doing great as a DH… We cannot just crush the guy every time we feel like. We need to know that he’s an important piece for this organization.” Well, if Big Papi is advocating for a player, you gotta listen. And it’s about time, the Red Sox listen, too.
Devers is a key figure for the Red Sox, earning over $20 million annually. But paying big bucks doesn’t mean he can seamlessly switch to first base overnight. First base requires different skills, and forcing Devers there risks unsettling his rhythm. After all, his .280 batting average and 690 RBIs prove his value lies in hitting, not necessarily fielding first base.
Here is Ortiz talking Devers https://t.co/YPA1ZC2ZFS pic.twitter.com/eHdhXx51Li
— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) June 2, 2025
Moving Devers to first might disrupt his offensive groove, a risk the Sox can’t ignore. Adjusting to a new position could sap his energy and focus at the plate. With David Ortiz praising Devers’ consistent hitting, the team should protect that strength. Sometimes, keeping a star where he shines matters more than filling a positional gap.
If the Red Sox keep juggling Devers like a circus act, they might just drop the ball altogether. Sometimes, the smartest move isn’t to reinvent the wheel but to let it roll smoothly. Ortiz’s words aren’t just advice—they’re a blueprint for winning. In baseball, as in life, you don’t fix what’s already knocking it out of the park.
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