SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Rafael Devers has returned to spring training carrying a lighter spirit and a clear focus as he joins the San Francisco Giants. Expecting his third child, a son to complement his two daughters, Devers is embracing this fresh chapter with renewed positivity after a turbulent transition.
Nicknamed “Carita” for his youthful face, Devers is once again engaging openly with teammates, reigniting the warmth and humor that first drew attention from the Giants’ locker room.
From Boston Discontent to a New Beginning in San Francisco
Last spring, when Devers was still with the Boston Red Sox, his mood was less vibrant. Feeling blindsided over the team’s decision to pursue Alex Bregman as the new third baseman without his knowledge, Devers struggled with a sense of betrayal. The announcement of Bregman’s signing at Fenway South marked a turning point, with Devers reluctantly shifting away from his preferred position.
Though he adapted to the designated hitter role and found success alongside Bregman in the lineup, further complications arose when Devers was asked to cover first base after an injury to Triston Casas. He declined, underlining his discomfort with the position.
By mid-June, the Red Sox traded Devers to the Giants, including the remaining value of his $313 million, 10-year contract. This marked a bitter end to a relationship that had been fraying for months.
Devers Focuses on Present as He Prepares for the 2026 Season
Asked about his feelings toward the trade, Devers was firm in leaving the past behind.
“I don’t have any opinions on what is being said. I’m here right now, so let’s concentrate here and just leave the past in the past,”
he said.
This spring, Devers has stepped into the Giants’ primary first baseman role under the guidance of infield coach Ron Washington. His powerful bat remains his strongest asset, with consistent home runs landing deep into Scottsdale Stadium’s concourse.
Devers delivered impressive numbers despite the prior season’s turmoil, hitting 35 home runs, driving in 109 runs, and posting an .851 OPS, providing much-needed offense for a Giants lineup that has long struggled for power.
“The sound is different off his bat,”
commented Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey, highlighting Devers’ impact.
Quiet Leadership Without the Spotlight
While the Red Sox once expected Devers to be a vocal leader following his lucrative contract signing, he has never sought that role. On Tuesday, during a team meeting, Devers surprised some by addressing the group. However, he still refuses the label of leader, handing that mantle to teammates Willy Adames and Matt Chapman.
“I don’t want to come across that I’m a leader,”
Devers said.
“I just like to do the little things. If I can help somebody hitting, or sharing my experience, my knowledge that I have after so many years in the big leagues, that’s what I want to do.”
Leaving Boston Behind and Looking Forward
The trade from Boston may never fully fade from discussion, reminiscent of splits involving other stars like Mookie Betts and Nomar Garciaparra. Yet, Devers’ introspective nature shields him from outside noise.
“I don’t have social media. I don’t go on the internet or read anything.”
Devers explained as he reflected on his mindset. “Boston is in the past,” he added, signaling a clear break from those former chapters.
This detachment has helped restore Devers’ characteristic smile and allowed him to focus on building a promising future with the Giants, a fresh start that could reshape his career and energize a team eager for offensive punch as the 2026 season approaches.
