Five Key Roster Questions Facing the Red Sox After the Rafael Devers Trade: Insights from Craig Breslow

BOSTON — Rafael Devers is no longer with the Red Sox. This news hit hard, especially since just two years ago, he was the highest-paid player in the team’s history. The trade to San Francisco for a four-player package feels surreal. Both the team and Devers need to move on, but it’s time to look ahead.

The Red Sox have three games in Seattle this week before they face Devers again. Here are some key questions they’ll need to answer.

1. Who fills the DH role?
Historically, the Red Sox have relied on a solid designated hitter. Fans remember big names like David Ortiz and J.D. Martinez. Now, without Devers, manager Alex Cora has some decisions to make.

Cora may mix and match players at DH. Before the trade, he was already juggling the lineup. Rookies like Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer might step up. As players return, the situation will get more complicated. Cora has to find a balance between offense and defense. For example, Will they sacrifice outfield defense to get Anthony more playtime?

2. What will the batting order look like?
Devers was a key hitter, usually batting second. His departure forces Cora to rethink the lineup. The leadoff spot might go to Jarren Duran, while Abreu could take second. Rookies may find themselves in new roles, which can be a risk.

3. How will new pitchers fit in?
The Red Sox acquired pitchers Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison. Hicks has faced injury issues and has been out due to a toe problem. Meanwhile, Harrison, who has pitched at both the major league and Triple-A levels, needs time in the minors to adjust.

The Boston rotation recently excelled, suggesting that they’re focused on optimizing performance in the interim. The future looks bright, but these new arms will take time to integrate.

4. How will the savings from the trade be used?
Trading Devers saved the Red Sox over $270 million. This opens up financial flexibility for the team. The general manager, Chaim Bloom, will need to decide how to use that budget. One option is to pursue a big-name player before the trade deadline.

5. What’s the long-term plan for first base?
For now, Abraham Toro and Romy Gonzalez are holding down first base. With Triston Casas out, the team must think long-term. They need a solid plan for the future since Casas’ injury could keep him off the field longer than expected.

In summary, the Red Sox are at a crossroads. The loss of Devers is significant, but it creates opportunities. Manager Alex Cora will have to navigate these changes carefully. As they face the upcoming games, fans will be watching closely to see how the team evolves without their star slugger.

For more on MLB trades, you can check out extensive details here from ESPN.

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