The Boston Red Sox have ended the long-running Alex Bregman sweepstakes.
Bregman, one of the most sought-after free agents, had offers from the Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, and Toronto Blue Jays, all vying for the former Houston Astros star.
Ultimately, the Red Sox landed Bregman on a three-year, $120 million deal, sparking immediate questions about the future of Rafael Devers, Boston’s incumbent third baseman.
Rafael Devers Almost Asked for a Trade
Devers told reporters on March 13 that he’s “good to do whatever” Boston wants of him. While he now insists he’s willing to adjust, that wasn’t always the case.
Sean McAdam of MassLive reported that Devers nearly requested a trade after the Bregman signing.
“According to sources, Devers was angry enough about the situation to consider asking for a trade. And it’s possible that, as part of his ‘private conversations’ with Craig Breslow and Co., he indeed relayed that. Devers is savvy enough to know the Red Sox are not about to disclose any such request, since, if it ever came to a point where a trade was seriously considered, the Sox would lose leverage if Devers was rather publicly shooting his way out of town.”
Devers, who has spent his entire MLB career with the Red Sox, is a two-time All-Star and is in the second season of a franchise record 10-year, $313 million contract.
“I’m here to help,” Devers said, addressing speculation about his role. “I’ve already spoken with them about that, and they know where I stand. But I’m just ready to play.”
Devers’ Spring Debut Is Coming Soon for the Red Sox
While Devers initially considered asking for a trade, he now appears ready to embrace whatever role Boston has for him.
So far, Devers has yet to appear in spring training, as he’s been taking it slow due to lingering shoulder soreness from the 2024 season.
Still, he is expected to return to the field soon, though the Red Sox have yet to clarify exactly how they will balance Bregman and Devers in the lineup.
If Bregman takes over at third base, Devers will likely slide into the designated hitter role.
For now, Devers appears content and focused on the season, no matter where he plays.
‘A Little Drama’ in Boston After Winning Bregman Sweepstakes
The Bregman sweepstakes is a significant gain for the Red Sox, one that could give the club the boost it needs.
Boston is stuck in the middle of the pack until the season gets going, sandwiched between the 13th-ranked Texas Rangers and 15th-ranked Chicago Cubs.
“The Red Sox quite clearly lost the Chris Sale trade with the Braves, however, adding Garrett Crochet from the White Sox is quite the consolation prize,” PFSN’s Justin Lewis wrote in his preseason MLB power rankings.
“If Walker Buehler can return to his pre-injury form, the top of this rotation could be lethal. There is a little drama on the infield with the addition of Bregman, but if everything clicks, Boston is looking like a potential Wild Card team or darkhorse AL East contender.”