In recent years, personnel management at the Red Sox has been heavily criticized. And with good reason. They were unable to retain the services of Mookie Betts long term. This was followed by the departure of Xander Bogaerts to San Diego. Two big chunks of the 2018 World Series conquest have left.
With Betts, Bogaerts and Rafael Devers, the Red Sox had a core that would have put them at the top of the standings for years to come. Fortunately, they managed to stop the bleeding by extending Devers’ contract for 10 years from next season.
The $313.5 million guarantee has taken a huge weight off Devers’ shoulders, as evidenced by his start to the season. In 21 games, he has already hit seven home runs, an American League high. Additionally, he had 18 RBIs.
Although Boston is ranked last in its division, its record of 11 wins and 10 losses is nothing to embarrass. It’s a start to the season well beyond what the majority of experts predicted. It’s largely due to the good work of the star third baseman.
This contract not only freed up Devers, but it took the pressure off the entire team. If he hadn’t signed it, the subject would have been brought up constantly in the locker room and it would have been harmful.
Now everyone can focus on what really matters: results.
- 10 home runs for Pete Alonso.
- Shohei Ohtani was excellent yesterday.
- The DBacks have a good player on their hands.
