Red Sox Seek Rafael Devers’ Health for Successful 2025 Season

BOSTON, Mass. — As the Boston Red Sox prepare for the 2025 MLB season, the team’s success may hinge on the health of star third baseman Rafael Devers. Last season, Devers battled through shoulder and knee injuries, resulting in his lowest games played (138) since 2018. Despite his struggles, he finished the season with a .272 batting average, 28 home runs, and 83 RBIs.

“Raffy is someone who has been a leader by example by his actions and has tremendous respect from the staff and clubhouse,” said Craig Breslow, the Red Sox chief baseball officer, to reporters. “Ultimately, he needs to be healthy, and he needs to stay healthy. We’ve seen what a healthy Raffy Devers is capable of doing in the middle of the lineup. He’s carried us for weeks at a time, and we expect a great season out of him.”

Devers is keen on returning to form. Red Sox manager Alex Cora reported that Devers arrived early to spring training to work on his conditioning and skills, emphasizing the importance of his readiness ahead of the team’s first full-squad workout next Monday.

Amidst speculation over potential trades involving star third basemen Alex Bregman and Nolan Arenado, the Red Sox remain focused on Devers’ personal development. “We’ve been talking about everything from what we’re trying to accomplish roster-wise to what we need to accomplish for him,” Cora stated. “Right now, the main thing is for him to have a healthy camp. He had a good offseason regarding his shoulders. He’s in a good spot.”

However, fans are concerned about Devers’ defensive contributions after he committed 12 errors in the 2024 season, the most among American League third basemen. The organization acknowledges the need for defensive improvements but is optimistic about the efforts Devers has made in this area.

“Defensive metrics can be misleading at times because of the sample size, but we’ve been happy with the work and know he takes pride in his defense,” Breslow added. “The headline is what he does in the batter’s box, but he wants to be the most complete player he can be.”

Looking at the broader picture for the 2025 season, the Red Sox have made significant offseason moves, including the recent signing of Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million deal. This addition is expected to bolster the lineup, and how Devers fits into this revamped team remains an engaging storyline.

As the season approaches, it remains crucial for Devers to stay healthy and regain his formidable form, which has made him one of the most feared sluggers in the game.