Mon Feb 17 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Red Sox Face Lineup Logjam as Devers Rejects DH Role

**Boston, MA** – The Boston Red Sox are facing a lineup predicament after star third baseman Rafael Devers vehemently rejected a move to designated hitter (DH) following the team’s acquisition of Alex Bregman. Devers, who has played his entire career at third base, declared his intention to remain at the hot corner, despite the Red Sox initially suggesting a shift to accommodate Bregman.

“I told them no. I’m a third baseman,” Devers stated. While expressing gratitude for the team’s offseason moves, he made it clear his position was non-negotiable. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged Devers’ pride and commitment to third base, stating that the team will make decisions accordingly, prioritizing the overall benefit of the Red Sox.

The situation complicates matters for several players. Bregman, primarily a third baseman himself, would ideally shift to second base to allow Devers to remain at third. However, Devers’ refusal creates a logjam, potentially hindering top prospect Kristian Campbell, who is primarily a second baseman and close to MLB-ready. The Red Sox may now need to consider alternative positions for both Bregman and Campbell. The presence of Masataka Yoshida, the team’s incumbent and highly-paid DH, further complicates the situation.

While the Bregman/Devers dynamic may be short-lived given Bregman’s potential opt-out clause, the immediate challenge for the Red Sox is finding a solution that maximizes their newly-enhanced roster, including recent additions Bregman, Walker Buehler, and Garrett Crochet. The team, significantly improved after last season’s 81-81 record, aims for a playoff berth in 2024. The Red Sox front office now faces the challenge of resolving this internal conflict before the start of the season.

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