The Red Sox’s Bold Move: Signing Alex Bregman
The Boston Red Sox have made a significant splash in the free-agency market by signing two-time All-Star Alex Bregman. This move is expected to elevate the team’s performance both offensively and defensively, but it has also sparked a bit of tension within the clubhouse. Bregman, a versatile and talented player, primarily plays third base, a position already manned by Rafael Devers, one of the Red Sox’s most established and skilled hitters. Devers, an eight-year veteran and three-time All-Star, has made it abundantly clear that he has no intention of giving up his spot. Speaking through an interpreter to reporters on Monday, Devers emphasized, “Third base is my position. It’s what I’ve played. I don’t know what their plans are. I know we had a conversation. I made it clear, kind of what my desires were, and whatever happens from here, I don’t know.” When asked if he was open to moving to designated hitter, Devers’ response was immediate and firm: “No. I play third.”
The Defensive Conundrum
The defensive aspect of this situation is a significant point of contention. Devers, while an exceptional hitter, is not known for his defensive skills. He ranks among the worst third basemen in baseball according to advanced metrics like outs above average (OAA) and fielding run value (FRV). On the other hand, Bregman is one of the best defensive third basemen in the league, having won a Gold Glove at the position last season. From a purely baseball perspective, it would be a no-brainer for Manager Alex Cora to place Bregman at third base. However, baseball decisions are rarely that straightforward, especially when veteran players and team dynamics are involved.
Rafael Devers: A Cornerstone of the Red Sox
Rafael Devers is more than just a third baseman; he is a cornerstone of the Red Sox’s lineup and a veteran leader on the team. Devers slashed .272/.354/.516 last season, hit 28 home runs, and drove in 83 RBIs, earning him two Silver Slugger awards. His hitting prowess is unparalleled and has been a significant factor in the Red Sox’s recent success. Devers’ resistance to moving from third base is understandable given his long tenure with the team and his dedication to the position. However, his defensive limitations add a layer of complexity to Cora’s roster construction decisions.
Alex Cora’s Dilemma
Manager Alex Cora has his hands full with this decision. He previously stated that he would finalize his lineup late in spring training, ahead of the Red Sox’s March 17 season opener against the Texas Rangers. On Monday, Cora made it clear that promises made by the previous head of baseball operations, Chaim Bloom, who has since moved to the St. Louis Cardinals, are not binding on the current leadership. “Different people are here, right? There’s a different leader here. Chaim is in St. Louis right now,” Cora noted. While he acknowledges Devers’ pride and dedication, Cora’s priority is the team’s overall success. “The decisions that are going to be made here about roster construction and about what we’re going to do in the future, we’re going to make sure we have the best team possible out there,” he said. Cora’s words suggest that the decision will be based on what benefits the Red Sox the most, regardless of individual preferences.
Bregman’s Versatility
Since joining the Red Sox, Bregman has been taking reps at second base during spring training in Fort Myers, Florida. Cora has expressed confidence in Bregman’s ability to succeed at second, a position that Bregman has played before in his career. This versatility could provide a compromise solution, allowing both players to be utilized effectively. However, it also means that Cora will have to carefully consider the lineup to ensure that the team’s defensive and offensive strengths are maximized. Bregman’s defensive excellence at third base and his offensive capabilities make him a valuable asset, but the challenge lies in integrating him without disrupting the existing team structure.
The Team First Mentality
The situation highlights a broader issue in professional sports: the balance between individual aspirations and the team’s best interests. Devers’ steadfast refusal to move to designated hitter is a testament to his passion and commitment to his position. However, Cora’s emphasis on the team’s needs over personal desires is a familiar refrain in a sport where collective success is paramount. “He feels like he’s a third baseman. He’s going to work out as a third baseman, and then we’re gonna make decisions accordingly. I think here it’s not about Bregman or Devers or Cora. It’s about the Red Sox. Whatever decision we make is for the benefit of the team,” Cora reiterated. As spring training progresses, the Red Sox will need to find a way to integrate Bregman while respecting Devers’ position and contributions. The solution may not please everyone, but it will undoubtedly be in the best interest of the organization’s overall goals.
