Rafael Devers Debuts with Giants Amid Trade Drama

SAN FRANCISCO — Rafael Devers made his debut with the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, following a shocking trade from the Boston Red Sox. In his first game at Oracle Park, Devers went 2-for-5, driving in a run, though the Giants lost 3-2 to the Cleveland Guardians.

Devers, received with a warm ovation from fans, admitted to feeling nervous during his first at-bat. “I wasn’t expecting that,” he said through translator Erwin Higueros. “Afterwards, I felt a little bit more comfortable and it was great to see the fans welcoming me that way.”

Despite an initial strikeout against Guardians pitcher Slade Cecconi, Devers managed to hit an RBI double and had two strikeouts throughout the evening. “It feels weird having a different uniform, but I’ll get used to it,” he stated. “I already turned the page. Now I’m here and I’m just gonna enjoy the moment.”

The trade marks an end to Devers’ eight-plus-year career with the Red Sox, where he became a face of the franchise after signing a 10-year, $313.5 million contract before the 2023 season. He was performing well this year, with a batting average of .271, 14 home runs, and an American League-leading 55 walks over 72 games. However, off-the-field issues and team dynamics led to the decision to trade him.

The Red Sox traded Devers in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jordan Hicks, left-hander Kyle Harrison, and minor-league prospects James Tibbs and Jose Bello. The Giants are expected to cover the remaining $254 million of Devers’ contract, bolstering their lineup in the process.

Looking ahead, Devers has begun taking grounders at first base, preparing for a potential position change. Though he hasn’t set a firm timeline, he expressed his eagerness to get back on the field. “I know that starting tomorrow, I’m gonna take as many grounders as possible at first base,” he said. “Whenever the manager and coaches feel I’m ready, I’m gonna be ready.”