The Boston Red Sox have endured a challenging stretch, losing 11 of their last 16 games and dropping to 27-31 on the season. Once just two games behind the Yankees in the AL East on May 11, they now sit nine games out of first and are tied for eighth in the wild-card standings.
As the team looks to stop the skid, manager Alex Cora addressed the media with clarity and conviction on two key players, Rafael Devers and Kristian Campbell, indicating potential shakeups ahead of the upcoming series in Atlanta.
No Devers at First and Third Base, Despite Rumors
Devers has been at the center of a lot of debate. He was moved to a full-time designated hitter position when the Red Sox signed superstar third baseman Alex Bregman over the winter, a move he initially objected to.
After early problems, Devers gradually found his rhythm at the plate and settled into the DH role, but a new problem has arisen because Triston Casas had surgery to repair a ruptured patellar tendon, ending his season. There were whispers that Devers may switch positions because first base was now empty, but Cora soon put an end to those discussions.
“[Devers] is not going to play third base,” Cora stated bluntly to the media. “We’re still talking about the situation. This is where we’re at… There’s conversations. I don’t need to get into specifics, but the third base part of it is a no.”
Alex Cora on Rafael Devers and Kristian Campbell 🎙️
“[Devers] is not going to play third base… There’s a chance [Campbell] will play [first base] in Atlanta.” pic.twitter.com/SLmwTHpMGd
— NESN (@NESN) May 28, 2025
Cora’s comments leave little room for interpretation. Devers will not be returning to third base or shifting to a new position, despite the team’s urgent needs. The veteran slugger appears firmly entrenched as the designated hitter, signaling the organization’s respect for his preferences and long-term health. However, that decision creates a ripple effect that Cora seems ready to address by turning to younger talent.
Rookie Gets the Nod for New Position
Enter Campbell. The rookie infielder has been gaining momentum within the organization, and Cora confirmed that he is being given a shot to contribute in a big way. “There’s a chance [Campbell] will play [first base] in Atlanta,” Cora said, offering a glimmer of change for a team in desperate need of a spark.
With Devers locked in at DH and Casas sidelined, Campbell’s promotion to a more important position would indicate a change in the Red Sox’s approach. This weekend’s matchup could be a crucial turning point in the team’s poor slump as they get ready to play the Atlanta Braves.
One thing is certain: Cora is stating his position clearly, and the lineup changes might be the spark Boston needs to get back into the running. It remains to be seen if these alterations will spark the Red Sox again.
