Why Jonathan Papelbon Sees Advantage In Red Sox-Rafael Devers Change
The Boston Red Sox made the aggressive yet long-term beneficial decision to put marquee free-agent signing Alex Bregman at third base this season. That deal moved Rafael Devers, Boston’s $331 million star, to designated hitter after some brief thematic in spring training.
The switch does help the Red Sox maximize the roster and Opening Day marked the first installment of the new-look lineup. Devers struggled with three strikeouts in a hitless afternoon, though Boston rallied for a 5-2 win.
There’s no reason to sound the alarm after a game and a season focused on hitting should only help Devers. NESN analyst and former Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon certainly believes so, especially with in-house guidance from legends such as David Ortiz.
“I personally think that Devers is going to rake at DH this year,” Papelbon told NESN.com. “I know Papi made it easy and I know it’s not easy. We’re so used to Papi making it easy. Papi can help him. There’s no language barrier. He’s got people in his corner to help him be the best DH since David Ortiz and possibly be the next one. What is wrong with that?”
Devers still swatted 28 home runs in 138 games in 2024 despite playing with season-long shoulder injuries. Papelbon believes 2025 will see improved numbers and better health for the Red Sox slugger.
“He’s going to stay healthier, mark my word,” Papelbon added. “He won’t have these shoulder issues. Stay healthy. Go hit bombs.”