Rafael Devers: Why Keeping Boston’s Superstar Was the Red Sox’s Smartest Move
In the ever-changing landscape of MLB trade rumors, the Boston Red Sox once faced a pivotal decision: should they trade Rafael Devers, or build the future around him?
With his breakout performances, contract discussions, and the pressure of a retooling franchise, many wondered whether Devers would follow Mookie Betts out the door. But fast forward to the present—and it’s clear: keeping Rafael Devers was one of the smartest moves the Red Sox front office ever made.
Let’s break down why the Red Sox were right to hold onto their star slugger and why any trade package, no matter how rich in prospects, would have fallen short.
The Hypothetical Trade: What Could the Red Sox Have Gotten?
Back in 2021 or 2022, if Boston had decided to shop Devers, they could have fetched a massive return. Teams like the Padres, Dodgers, or Mets—each in win-now mode—might have paid a premium for his bat.
A hypothetical trade package might have included:
– 2 top-50 MLB prospects (perhaps a power bat and a frontline pitcher)
– 1 MLB-ready outfielder or reliever
– 1–2 high-upside lottery-ticket players
It’s a tempting thought, especially for fans focused on rebuilding. But as history has shown, prospects are no guarantee. For every successful Juan Soto trade, there’s a disappointing return like the Chris Sale deal, where elite talents like Yoán Moncada and Michael Kopech didn’t reach full potential.
Why Trading Rafael Devers Would Have Been a Mistake.
1. Elite, Consistent Production
Devers is more than a solid bat—he’s an MVP-caliber talent. Since his breakout in 2019, he’s been one of the most dangerous left-handed hitters in baseball:
– Career .280+ batting average
– Multiple 30+ home run seasons
– Top 10 in RBIs since 2021
– Delivers in clutch postseason and late-game moments
You simply don’t trade that kind of reliability unless you’re getting back a franchise-changing superstar—and even then, it’s a gamble.
2. Face of the Franchise
After the controversial Mookie Betts trade, Boston couldn’t afford to alienate its fanbase again by losing another homegrown star.
In 2023, the Red Sox signed Rafael Devers to a 10-year, $313.5 million extension, locking in their cornerstone. This wasn’t just a baseball move—it was a brand, locker-room, and culture decision. Devers offers leadership, stability, and marketability that few prospects can match.
3. The Farm System Improved Without a Trade
Ironically, the Red Sox farm system flourished even without sacrificing Devers. Players like:
– Marcelo Mayer (SS)
– Roman Anthony (OF)
– Kyle Teel (C)
have all become top-100 prospects, positioning Boston for future success and allowing them to compete in the present.
So the team kept its star and restocked the farm. That’s a win-win. s luctus volutpat senectus montes.
The Verdict: No Regrets
Could the Red Sox have landed a great return for Rafael Devers during trade talks? Sure.
Would it have been worth it? Absolutely not.
Prospects are unpredictable. Devers is a proven force in the lineup—the kind of player championship teams are built around. Boston made the right call, and they’re already reaping the rewards in the 2025 MLB season and beyond.
