Sun May 11 13:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Red Sox Owner Flies to Kansas City to Address Devers’ First Base Refusal

**Kansas City, MO** – Boston Red Sox owner John Henry made a surprise trip to Kansas City on Friday to personally address the escalating conflict with star third baseman Rafael Devers, who has refused to move to first base. The unexpected visit followed Devers’ public criticism of the organization and its chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, after the team suggested he switch positions for the second time this season.

Devers, who signed a 10-year, $313.5 million contract last January, vehemently rejected a move to first base, a position he’s been asked to play twice this year, following the season-ending injury to Triston Casas. He expressed frustration that the team went back on its promise to keep him as the designated hitter (DH), a position he’s occupied for all 40 games this season.

The situation has been brewing since spring training when the Red Sox acquired Alex Bregman, forcing Devers off his long-held third base position. While Devers initially agreed to become the DH, he felt blindsided by the lack of communication surrounding the position change.

Henry, along with Breslow and Red Sox president Sam Kennedy, met with Devers and manager Alex Cora on Friday. While the details of the meeting remain undisclosed, Breslow described it as “honest,” while Cora emphasized the importance of focusing on the team’s overall goals. Devers himself declined to comment following the meeting.

Despite the tension, Breslow stressed that the team’s main priority remains winning games. The possibility of Devers eventually moving to first base, which could open a spot for top prospect Roman Anthony or injured DH Masataka Yoshida, is still under discussion, but the team insists a resolution won’t be rushed. For now, the Red Sox are relying on utility players Romy Gonzalez and Abraham Toro to fill the first base void. The team’s 20-19 start is adding to the pressure of resolving the Devers situation swiftly and effectively.

Read More