Rafael Devers might want to forget the start of 2025—because it’s been brutal. He already made headlines by refusing to shift positions for Alex Bregman, but now, he’s grabbed attention for an even bigger concern—setting a new major-league record with ten strikeouts in the first three games of this year.

No hitter in history has had a worse start to the season than Devers. What’s even more troubling? He’s barely making contact. Sure, he managed a walk, but a 0-for-12 with ten K’s is unacceptable for a player of his caliber. The Red Sox slotted him in as the DH, with Bregman now at third, but Devers has been striking out more than anyone. Is that why no one’s cutting him any slack?

Well, in short, yes. The shift in roles from third base to a designated hitter might have played a major role in setting such an unwanted record for Rafael Devers. On March 30, MLB writer and analyst Bob Nightengale said, “Boston Red Sox DH Rafael Devers just set a major-league record by striking out 10 times in the first three games of the season.” After striking out so many times during the game, the Red Sox conceded a 4-1 defeat to the Texas Rangers. 

Given the struggles he has been facing this season, MLB analyst Jared Carrabis also said, “I can’t blame the lack of spring training action for Raffy’s struggles. Wilyer barely played all spring, lost 20 pounds from illness, and he looks like Barry Bonds to start the year. Raffy will be fine.” And that’s true. Carrabis believed that the lack of participation during the spring training was a major reason behind his struggles; however, the same happened with Wilyer Abreu, who also didn’t play much, losing 20 pounds or more. However, he has instilled faith in Devers, given that he managed to draw a bases-loaded walk, which fetched him the first RBI of this season.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox’s manager, Alex Cora, has his say on Rafael Devers. Let’s take a look at what he said.

Alex Cora’s surprising plan involving Rafael Devers and Alex Bregman’s current role

Right after the Gold Glove-winning third baseman, Alex Bregman, was signed by the Boston Red Sox for a three-year, $120 million contract, tension started to build in Boston. Rafael Devers, their current third baseman, was not interested in moving to any other position, as he has remained in that position since his debut in 2017. However, the Red Sox’s manager, Alex Cora, made a surprising revelation, saying, “With Raffy, we had a conversation, and we talked about it. He’s DHing; he’s the DH of the Boston Red Sox.” So, it looked part of the plan, and there’s no denying that Bregman is the most productive at third base.

That’s the reason Alex Cora admitted that Rafael Devers might not play at third base anymore this entire season. The Red Sox have even planned for a backup in case Bregman gets injured; they may go with Romy Gonzalez instead of Rafael Devers. It all now depends on how well Devers adapts to his new role as a designated hitter. However, given the flop show on Friday’s game, it’s too early to judge what the future lies ahead of him.

What do you think about Rafael Devers’ change in position, and will the Red Sox be able to get away from the panic button? Share your thoughts in the comment section.