Stroll around Fenway these days and you can nearly feel it: a slight change in the usual electric buzz of expectation. There is now a lot of hushed talk and a collective holding of breath. But why a sudden change? The drama unfolds around the 1B, and in the center of it is none other than DH Rafael Devers. Everyone is jumping with their opinions and insights. And now, this Red Sox legend has said something harsh!

For other teams, the focus is on coming to the top from day one. However, for the Red Sox, the never-ending drama of bases started during spring training. First, the 3B, and now the 1B, and in all, Rafael Devers has always been the center of the attraction. Just when Alex Cora thought he was settled with 3B chaos between Devers and Bregman, a great mess was waiting for the clubhouse once again.

Well, injury to Triston Casas, and suddenly the team had a major crisis. They looked for help and thought Rafael Devers could be the savior and could take on 1B. But he just stepped back, creating a storm not only in the dugout but also in the owner’s office. Amidst this drama, a voice of experience, a person whose legendary stature in Boston is untarnished, has provided a sharp and maybe required reality check.

Hall of Famer David Ortiz just gave his unfiltered reaction and didn’t mince a word. He said, “When you’re the man in the team, when you’re the guy the organization counts on, there are times when you have to take your ego and pack it away.” This is a much-needed reality check!

Especially from someone who not only attained great personal success in a Red Sox uniform but also played a key part in breaking the notorious “curse” and starting an era of unmatched titles. More importantly, it’s a reminder that it’s a team game, and you have to go as the situation demands.

But not everyone is criticising Rafael Devers. Another voice from a former Red Sox player has weighed in, and according to him, he is just doing right. Pedro Martinez, the former pitcher, tweeted, “You have to be Devers to understand Devers. If you don’t treat the player, treat the money you’re paying him… Devers does not shy away from working…Devers is not a guy that talks much, he leads by example. When you enter an organization you sign a confidentiality agreement and that needs to be respected on both sides, the front office and the player.”

In the middle of whether he is doing right or wrong, it’s the Red Sox who are suffering. Who can they look for 1B if it’s not Rafael Devers?

Red Sox first base fix

Grappling with roster changes after Triston Casas’ season-ending injury, the Boston Red Sox are at a turning point. There were expectations from Rafael Devers, but they’re fading away. So, who can be a good fit? Might be Kristian Campbell from second base to first, a change that would handle several issues at once. Why him? His performance speaks.

Campbell has shown offensive skill this season with a .305 batting average, .412 on-base percentage, and .474 slugging percentage, with three home runs and ten RBIs in 27 games. Although his second base defense has been acceptable, it’s not irreplaceable, so moving to first base is a reasonable choice. This change would not only cover the gap left by Casas but also let Campbell keep offensive contributions without endangering the infield defence of the club.

Furthermore, moving Campbell paves the way for top prospect Marcelo Mayer to join the major league squad. Currently thriving at Triple-A with a .282 batting average, eight home runs, and 39 RBIs, Mayer has the adaptability to play second base, so giving the Red Sox a dynamic middle infield pair. Including Mayer in the lineup fits the team’s long-term ambition and adds new vitality to the roster.

The Red Sox might, on the other hand, consider trade possibilities for seasoned first basemen, such as Yandy Diaz or Ryan Mountcastle. Internal changes, including Campbell and Mayer, provide a smart way to promote player development and maintain roster flexibility. These choices will be vital in determining the direction and competitiveness of the squad in the league as the season advances.