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Rafael Devers surprised fans on Tuesday by making his debut at first base for the San Francisco Giants during their game against the Atlanta Braves.
Playing defense was unexpected as Devers had previously expressed his desire to only serve as a designated hitter for his former team, the Boston Red Sox. However, after the game, Devers revealed his newfound preference for playing defense.
Rafael Devers reacts after a game against the Atlanta Braves on July 23, 2025. (Dale Zanine/Imagn Images)
Devers stated, “It keeps me active. It keeps my head out of just thinking about the next at-bat. I’d rather be on the field than in the cage hitting all the time and thinking about the next at-bat,” according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
During spring training, there was tension between Devers and Red Sox manager Alex Cora regarding Devers’ position on the field. Cora initially announced that Devers would be the team’s full-time designated hitter. However, when the Red Sox faced an injury to their primary first baseman, Triston Casas, the idea of Devers playing first base surfaced.
Rafael Devers warms up before a game in San Francisco on June 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
Despite initial reluctance, Devers ultimately embraced the opportunity to play first base for the Giants. His performance during his debut game included two base hits, contributing to the Giants’ 9-0 victory over the Braves.
Rafael Devers walks off the field during a game against the Atlanta Braves on July 23, 2025. (Dale Zanine/Imagn Images)
Devers’ successful transition to first base highlights his versatility as a player and his willingness to adapt to new challenges.
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