What’s really happening behind the scenes in Boston? Red Sox Manager Alex Cora’s recent comments dismissing outside influence have caused a whirlwind of speculation.

In a recent interview, Cora was asked if a chat between David Ortiz could assist in squashing any potential beef between Rafael Devers and Alex Bregman. His response was short and direct, “I don’t need help for that. I’m the manager of the team.” The statement has created a steady buzz.

But where does the heart of the matter lie?

It boils down to Rafael Devers’ battle with the new acquisition, Alex Bregman. When Devers signed his 11-season extension in 2023, it appeared he had ensured his long-term position as the Red Sox’s third baseman. It’s a role Devers proudly defines as his own.

Two years later, the Red Sox acquires Bregman, a two-time All-Star with a Gold Glove award, and Devers’s future expectations are in play. “Third base is my position,” Devers said in a recent press conference, making it clear to the media that changing positions isn’t an option in his mind.

Adding another layer to this unfolding drama is the turnover in the front office.

The Red Sox have new stewardship with Craig Breslow after firing Chaim Bloom. And the roster commitments made under Bloom’s regime are under review. Cora acknowledged this shift when he noted, “Different people here, right?”

A change in leadership places Devers’ conundrum into a strategic one for fans and teammates wondering what direction the Red Sox will choose.

Top Comment by Kenny D

It just shows he is all about himself and not about winning or bringing the WS trophy to Boston. ...more

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Debate

Red Sox weighing defense in the Devers-Bregman comparison

The recent stats rated Devers minus nine defensive runs. And well, Bregman is at plus six. On other advanced metrics, such as Outs Above Average, Bregman performs in the 91st percentile for third basemen, compared to Devers’ performance in the 10th percentile.

When you’re a team chasing greatness, these types of data-driven arguments are difficult to ignore, even if it means challenging long-held beliefs about player roles.

So, how should the Red Sox weigh player pride versus what makes the team better?

Manager Alex Cora said, “Decisions are gonna be made here about roster construction. And what we do in the future, and we want to make sure we have the best team possible out there.” It suggests that all decisions carry some level of consequence.

“I think here, it’s not about Bregman or Devers or me; it’s about the Red Sox. Whatever decision we make is for the benefit of the team,” added Cora.

As a revered mentor with decades in Red Sox lore, Ortiz’s endorsement of Rafael Devers is more than just high praise. It’s an investment in the team’s trajectory. Ortiz praised Devers as “one of the top three pure hitters in the game” in 2022. He also urged the Red Sox to sign him to a long-term contract because “he’s the face of that organization right now.”

This dilemma is more than a duel for Boston – it is a test of faith. It is a reminder that even the most beloved players are subject to the cold realities of professional sports.

Are you Team Devers or Team Bregman? Don’t hold back on sharing your views with us.