The Phillies are a potential landing spot for Rafael Devers despite the reluctance of designated hitters. Phillies emerge as potential landing spot amid designated hitter reluctance
Rafael Devers, the Boston Red Sox‘s star third-baseman is facing a difficult situation in this offseason. Devers, a $313 million superstar who has been a part of the Boston Red Sox since 2007, is reportedly hesitant about moving to designated hitter. Devers’ refusal to DH has sparked speculation that he may request a trade.
The Philadelphia Phillies are the next step. Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report said that Philadelphia would be an ideal destination for Devers, if the Red Sox decided to consider trade options. Rymer created a hypothetical scenario in which both teams could gain from a trade.
Rymer’s potential package of trade deals is shown below:
* **Philadelphia Phillies receive:** 3B Rafael Devers
* **Boston Red Sox receive:** RF Nick Castellanos, 3B Alec Bohm, SS Aidan Miller (Phillies No. 3 prospect)
This proposed trade is designed to meet the needs of each team. Nick Castellanos, a Red Sox designated hitter who can also play outfield occasionally, could be able to provide the Red Sox with immediate power. Alec Bohm is a versatile player who excels against pitchers with a left-handed swing, as evidenced by his career.870 ops against these players. Boston has acquired a promising young prospect in Aidan Miller, who can develop into either a shortstop with a strong bat or an all-round third baseman.
The Phillies would be wise to acquire a player with the caliber of Rafael Devers. Trea Turner’s position at shortstop is now secure, and the Phillies may feel more comfortable trading a young prospect. This deal could be attractive because the organization is also open to trading Bohm or Castellanos.
The hypothetical package of trades is balanced. The Red Sox can remain competitive and acquire valuable assets in the future. The scenario, while still hypothetical, provides a framework that is realistic for a possible deal. Devers must be willing to accept the role of designated hitter and the Red Sox have to commit to him staying in Boston. Rafael Devers’ future remains an important storyline as we move into the offseason.