San Francisco – Rafael Devers made his team debut on June 17th as the designated hitter during the Giants’ first homestand series against the Cleveland Guardians. Today, San Francisco kicks off a series against Devers’ former team, the Boston Red Sox.
While Devers has repeatedly stated that he holds no ill will toward anyone from his former team, he expressed a strong desire to find his place within the Giants organization and help the team improve over the long term. He also shared his excitement about playing first base, something he had been unwilling to do while with the Red Sox.
Giants manager Bob Melvin noted that Devers is eager to get on the field and contribute in any way he can. However, Melvin emphasized that the team won’t rush the process, as they want to ensure Devers is fully acclimated before expanding his role.
Devers’ former manager, Alex Cora, had nothing but positive things to say about the star infielder following the stunning trade. Cora acknowledged the emotional difficulty of losing a key player but added that it’s part of the business and nothing personal.
Cora was asked if there had been a moment to clear the air or explain that the trade wasn’t personal. He responded, “We always talk about that, nothing in this business is personal. Xander Bogaerts is in San Diego, it’s not personal. Mookie Betts is in L.A., it’s not personal. Rafael Devers is with the Giants, it’s not personal.”
