The Boston Red Sox’s decision to change Rafael Devers to designated hitter in 2025 has provoked intense reactions. Multiple fans question whether this move indicates favoritism toward Alex Bregman, who was handed the third-base job after signing a three-year, $120 million deal. While some see it as a vital defensive upgrade, others argue that the team is driving Devers in a role he never wanted.

Crucially, the debate has drawn comparisons to David Ortiz’s transition to DH, raising the question: will this change unlock Devers’ full potential, or is it a sign of a deeper issue?

David Ortiz became a full-time designated hitter at age 29, the same age Devers will be in 2025. In that role, Ortiz exploded offensively, hitting .300 with 47 home runs and 148 RBIs in his first full year. The Red Sox hoped for a similar outcome with Devers, but circumstances differ—Ortiz embraced the transformation, while Devers initially repelled it.

The vital difference between the two? Alex Bregman. Unlike Ortiz, who shifted because of a natural decline in his defensive ability, Devers is being pushed aside for a privileged defender. Bregman, who won a Gold Glove in 2024, committed just four errors last season compared to Devers’ 14. The defensive upgrade is clear, but fans are questioning if the Red Sox prioritized Bregman too quickly over their longtime star.

Fans react to Devers’ DH move and Alex Bregman’s favoritism

One fan raised a vital issue related to Devers‘ transition, asking who will safeguard him in the lineup, just as Manny Ramirez did for Ortiz. “Who’s Going to Be Devers’ Manny? – Bregman, Casas“, asked one fan. While Alex Bregman’s presence should help, his attacking style differs from Ramirez. He is more of a contact hitter with .315 OBP in 2024 instead of a pure power threat. If Devers is assumed to duplicate Ortiz’s success, he will need consistent support to back him up.

On the contrary, some fans see this move as a scope for Devers to amplify his power, with on fan declaring: “He is Going to Be Even Better“. There is logic to this optimism. Devers’ career slugging percentage, at .511 is already elite. In addition, without the necessity of playing third, he could unlock larger power. Bregman’s powerful plate discipline, with 6.9 percent walk rate could also help by getting on base ahead of him, advancing RBI opportunities.

However, not everyone, is satisfied with the transformation. Some see it as the Red Sox sidelining their homegrown star in favor of a new signing. One fan said: “His Agent Better Have Already Demanded a Trade“. This concern is crystal clear. Devers signed an 11-year, $331 million deal in 2023 to be the face of the power club. Now, just two years later, he’s being moved from his natural position. If this shift leads to tension, a trade request would not be flabbergasting.

Despite the controversy, multiple fans are excited related to a power-focused version of Devers, with one user chiming in: “DINGERS ONLY, LET’S GOOOOO“. Statistically, this build-up has merit. Devers’ 93.2 mph average exit velocity ranked in the top 10 percent of MLB hitters in 2024. With no defensive responsibilities, he could aim solely on slugging, probably making a run at a 50-homer season.

However, not all fans buy into the Ortiz comparisons. “I Hate These 0 Causality Comparisons“, admitted one. They argue that Ortiz voluntarily embraced DH, while Devers resisted. However, Ortiz was a postseason legend with a career .947 OPS, while Devers’ playoff numbers (.870 OPS) fell short. The biggest difference? Ortiz was never “replaced” at first base, whereas Devers was pushed aside for Bregman.

However, some fans think this transformation could be the best thing for Devers’ longevity. “Maybe He’ll Stay Healthy and Be What He Was Always Meant to Be—Just Hit“. Given his past injuries—hamstring, back and wrist issues, avoiding third base could outstretch his career. In addition, Bregman’s shielding reliability ensures stability at third.

The Red Sox’s decision to move Devers to DH is about more than just performance—it is a statement on Bregman’s role in the club’s overall future. While some see it as a smart move to magnify both players’ strengths, others view it as favoritism towards Bregman. Will this mark the start of a legendary DH career for Devers, or will it be the beginning of a rift between him and the franchise? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—this debate is not going away anytime soon.