The Boston Red Sox are gearing up for their 2025 season, but not all of their stars are joining them for their exhibition series in Mexico. Notably, third baseman Rafael Devers and shortstop Trevor Story will both remain behind, stirring discussions about their roles and futures within the team.
On March 17, 2025, manager Alex Cora confirmed during a press briefing with reporters from MLB.com, including Ian Browne, "Devers won’t be making the trip for the Red Sox's exhibition games against the Monterrey Sultans on March 24 and 25." This decision has piqued interest, especially considering Devers’ recent struggles with injuries.
Devers, who has been recovering from shoulder issues and missed significant time during spring training, is focusing on fine-tuning his swing at the team’s facility in Fort Myers, Florida. Cora emphasized, “Rafa needs to work on some details. It's important he's ready for what’s coming.” Last season, Devers posted impressive stats, including a .272 batting average, 28 home runs, and 83 RBIs, proving to be one of Boston's pivotal offensive players.
Joining Devers on the sidelines for the Mexico games is Story, who is nursing back issues. His absence, like Devers', signals the Red Sox's commitment to ensuring their players are fit for the regular season. Story, who faced back trouble last week but managed to return to action shortly after, is slated to participate actively once the season progresses.
The Red Sox are clearly prioritizing the long-term health and performance of both players over these exhibition games. With reports surfacing about Devers feeling dissatisfied — particularly with trades and decisions during the offseason, like the signing of Alex Bregman — his choice to remain behind has led to speculation. According to MassLive reporter Sean McAdam, Devers has privately expressed dissatisfaction, feeling aggrieved and disrespected by the organization’s recent directions.
Cora, when addressing these speculation-laden concerns, indicated there was no urgency or implication of discontent linked to the decision to keep Devers and Story back. "The focus is simply on making sure they are ready for the season's start," Cora stated.
Devers's reluctance to join the team might raise eyebrows among fans, particularly since they are eagerly anticipating what pitches he will deliver post-regular season struggles. The tension surrounding his role is palpable, with many speculating whether this might affect his standing with the team moving forward.
Interestingly, throughout spring training, Devers has been at the center of discussions about potentially relinquishing his starting third base position. There have been indications from insiders and analysts alike contemplating whether Boston is positioning Bregman, recently acquired from Houston, as the team’s new third baseman, paving the way for Devers to shift toward the designated hitter role.
With the regular season set to kick off on March 27 against the Texas Rangers, the organization has made it clear: individual preparation is key. Devers will be expected to join the team for the new season’s launch, and the pressure mounts on him to deliver on expectations.
The Red Sox must balance managing veterans like Devers with integrating their promising young talent for the season to maintain competitiveness. The decisions made now are consequential not only for securing early victories but also for laying the groundwork for sustainable success.
While the exhibition series against the Sultans is viewed as valuable, the outcomes hold significantly less weight than the regular season, hence the strategic decision to hold Devers back. Analysts believe it may serve to quell the noise from fans and commentators alike, demonstrating the organization values health and team coherence over short-term engagements.
Boston's roster continues to evolve, teeming with potential. Those close to the team recognize the fine line they must tread as they weigh the returns from open exhibition games against concerns about cohesion and performance readiness.
With players like Devers who have proven themselves on the field, any rumors or uncertainties may cast shadows over the upcoming season, but also represent opportunities for both players and the team to prove doubters wrong. Cora's management style appears to be agile yet cautiously aimed at maintaining team morale and productivity.
The looming season promises to be challenging but filled with opportunities for the Red Sox. Devers's preparation may be the decisive factor as he looks to reclaim his confidence and position amid growing uncertainty. Whatever the case, the team is preparing for what they must outperform not just on paper but within the increasingly competitive league.
