The Boston Red Sox traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants, significantly impacting the pennant races on both coasts. Devers’ agent confirmed the deal, which involves the Giants sending pitchers Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison to Boston. Devers, a three-time All-Star and the former face of the franchise, signed a 10-year, $313.5 million contract with the Red Sox in 2023. He has had a strong season, batting .272 with 15 home runs and 58 RBIs.
His relationship with the Red Sox had soured after the team signed Gold Glove third baseman Alex Bregman and asked Devers to switch to designated hitter. Devers was reluctant to accept this demotion, especially after the injury of first baseman Triston Casas, which prompted the Red Sox to seek his return to the field. He expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s handling of the situation, stating that the front office should find another player.
The trade agreement caught the Giants by surprise just before a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with shortstop Willy Adames expressing excitement about Devers’ arrival, deeming him one of the best hitters in the game. This trade is reminiscent of past major moves made by the Red Sox, including the midseason trade of fan-favorite Nomar Garciaparra in 2004, which ultimately led to a World Series victory that year.
Giants’ president of baseball operations Buster Posey, previously a seven-time All-Star, has been aggressively reshaping the team, making significant additions to enhance their competitiveness. Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw recognized the impact of Devers, suggesting that he is a game-changer capable of altering the division’s dynamics.
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