Rafael Devers arrives at second base after a long line-drive double, bringing Kristian Campbell home. Then, he takes a deep breath and smiles. It’s finally over. His longest hitless streak is now in the books, and he finally helps the Boston Red Sox win a game.
It’s been a long month for the Dominican-born player. He wasn’t able to hit during the offseason due to a shoulder injury. He was moved to the DH spot, sparking controversy during Spring Training, and then endured 21 consecutive hitless at-bats with 15 strikeouts.
«To be honest, it was more for other people than for me,» Devers told NESN on Wednesday night after the 3-0 win against the Orioles. «I’ve been receiving a lot of text messages from people asking if I’m okay. I’m not the kind of guy who likes getting a lot of messages.»
It was a great game for Rafael Devers. He recorded two hits, his first RBI of the season, and, for the first time, he didn’t strike out.
«It makes me happy to see the reaction [of my teammates],» said Devers on NESN. «That shows me they are paying attention to my at-bats and supporting me.»
Devers went 22 consecutive at-bats without a hit from Opening Day until Wednesday, marking the longest hitless streak of his career.
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«We all needed that one,» said manager Alex Cora on NESN after Wednesday’s game. «His at-bats are getting better. He walked twice on Monday. Today, he put some good swings on the ball, and then came the line drive we’ve been looking for. He did an outstanding job.»
