Rafael Devers Settling in at First Base for San Francisco Giants
· Yahoo Sports
Slugger Rafael Devers is experiencing a much smoother spring environment with the San Francisco Giants compared to the uncertainty that surrounded him a year ago with the Boston Red Sox, according to MLB.com.
Now entering his first full season in San Francisco, Devers has shifted his focus entirely toward preparation and consistency after an eventful 2025 campaign that included a midseason trade.
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Last spring, Devers faced ongoing questions about his defensive role following Boston’s acquisition of fellow All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman.
Initially reluctant to move away from his natural position, Devers eventually accepted designated hitter duties.
However, tensions resurfaced later in the season when he declined to transition to first base after an injury created a roster need. It contributed to circumstances that ultimately led to his departure from Boston.
Now with the Giants, Devers has embraced the positional change. He reported to camp focused on improving his defense at first base and expressed comfort with the transition after gaining experience there late last season.
Devers appeared in 90 games with San Francisco in 2025, posting 20 home runs and an .807 OPS while adjusting to a new organization and defensive responsibilities.
With a full offseason to prepare, the 29-year-old is expected to take on everyday duties at first base as part of the club’s long-term plans.
Rafael Devers and Bryce Eldridge are practicing bunt drills at first base under the watchful eye of fielding guru Ron Washington. pic.twitter.com/b0dOi2jzhM
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) February 15, 2026
Giants manager Tony Vitello emphasized the impact Devers brings to the lineup, noting that his presence forces opposing teams to alter their pitching strategies.
The Giants are counting on his left-handed power to anchor an offense that features key contributors such as Willy Adames, Matt Chapman, Heliot Ramos, and Jung Hoo Lee, along with offseason additions Luis Arraez and Harrison Bader.
Much of Devers’ early spring work has taken place at Scottsdale Stadium, where his power has already been evident during batting practice sessions.
The Giants are optimistic that a full season in their system will allow Devers to return to his typical production levels, with the slugger aiming to surpass the 30-home run mark in 2026.
His move to first base also gives the organization flexibility with top prospect Bryce Eldridge, who continues developing in the minor leagues. Devers has voiced support for the young player while focusing primarily on helping his current teammates improve.
After a turbulent exit from Boston, Devers is keeping his attention on the present.
With a defined role and long-term stability in San Francisco, he enters the season determined to help reshape the Giants’ lineup into one of the most competitive groups in the league.
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