There have been numerous reports and rumors claiming that the relationship between the Boston Red Sox and Rafael Devers went sour before the trade. The speculation about Devers not wanting to play first base became one of the biggest topics leading up to the deal. Now that the trade is complete, the new San Francisco Giants third baseman shares his real thoughts about switching positions in Boston.

The 28-year-old third baseman admitted that had the Red Sox asked him to move to first base at the beginning of spring training that he would have accepted it, according to Ian Browne of MLB.com. From the sounds of it, there was a tiny window of opportunity for Boston to avoid disgruntling Devers over the position change.

“I would say that I have put some good numbers over at Boston, and I think that I do feel that I have earned some respect,” said Rafael Devers. “And if they would have asked me at the beginning of Spring Training, yes, I would have played [first base].”

Article Continues Below
More Boston Red Sox News
Jun 19, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants infielder Rafael Devers (16) takes a big swing during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
Rafael Devers shades Red Sox with savage happiness admissionMike Gianakos ·
Boston Red Sox second baseman Kristian Campbell (28) hits a two-run home run against the New York Yankees during the fifth inning at Yankee Stadium.
Red Sox’ Kristian Campbell sets record straight on Rafael Devers first base dramaSteve Silverman ·
San Francisco Giants infielder Rafael Devers (16) during the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Oracle Park.
Giants star Rafael Devers’ 6-word admission before revenge series vs. Red SoxTroy Finnegan ·
Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker (30) watches his two-run home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field.
MLB rumors: Kyle Tucker linked to Cubs, Red Sox in early free agency reportZachary Weinberger ·
San Francisco Giants infielder Rafael Devers (16) during the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Oracle Park.
Insider explains what Red Sox must do after Rafael Devers tradeBenedetto Vitale ·
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora (13) walks to the mound during the sixth inning against the New York Mets at Fenway Park.
Red Sox trade pitcher to Dodgers after Rafael Devers dealJoey Mistretta ·

The reason why the Red Sox didn't ask Devers to play first base at the beginning of spring training is likely because Triston Casas was fully healthy at the time and was being deemed a breakout candidate for Boston. The franchise didn't ask Rafael Devers to change positions until after Casas fell to a season-ending knee injury.

Regardless, the three-time All-Star no longer plays for the Red Sox and is now in the Giants' lineup. Rafael Devers is not playing first base either in San Francisco. He's remaining at third base, but is going to serve as the team's designated hitter more often than not. Overall, it appears Devers is in a situation he prefers.

Rafael Devers will play against the Red Sox for the first time since the trade, as the Giants begin a three-game series against Boston on Friday. Devers is slated to DH for San Francisco and bat third in the order for Friday's slate.