Alex Cora made a shocking statement ahead of Opening Day while speaking on WEEI. Maybe no one anticipated this so early. Rafael Devers will be the Boston Red Sox’s full-time Designated Hitter in 2025, while Alex Bregman will be the team’s full-time third baseman.
It was a rollercoaster Spring Training for the Dominican-born infielder. Earlier in camp, he stated that he was not willing to move off third base immediately after Bregman’s signing became official. In the end, he had a conversation with general manager Craig Breslow and Cora.
«Alex [Bregman] is going to play third, Raffy’s going to DH», said manager Alex Cora to WEEI on Wednesday. «We all are in the winning business. He understands that. We had conversations throughout Spring Training. He was very vocal about how he felt, and we made a decision.»
Rafael Devers began Spring Training with a shoulder injury. He ended up playing only five games and had just 14 at-bats in exhibition games
«It’s like everything—you don’t have to agree with it,» Cora said on WEEI. «At the end of the day, he only needs to go out there and perform every single day. He has been working hard, not only on his swing but also on his routine.»
Red Sox president Sam Kennedy said the other day that he expected Devers’ reaction to this news, but in the end, he knows the infielder wants to win.
READ MORE: Mookie Betts is ready to go and will play in the Dodgers’ opener
Alex Cora shared more news ahead of Opening Day, announcing that Aroldis Chapman will be the Red Sox’s official closer. He also announced that Nick Sogard will start the season in Triple-A Worcester.
