Rafael Devers is back at Fenway Park for the first time since the Boston Red Sox traded him to the San Francisco Giants in June 2025, and the former franchise cornerstone had a message for the fans who supported him throughout his time in Boston.
Speaking to reporters in the visitors’ dugout Friday, Devers said he does not have one specific memory that stands above the others from his time with the Red Sox. He also expressed his gratitude for the support he received from Boston fans. The reunion comes as Devers prepares to face his former team in a three-game weekend series.
Devers spent parts of nine seasons with Boston, earning three All-Star selections and helping the Red Sox win the 2018 World Series. He appeared to be a long-term cornerstone after signing a 10-year, $313.5 million extension.
However, tensions grew after Boston signed Alex Bregman and asked Devers to move away from third base. Devers voiced his frustration before the Red Sox ultimately traded him to San Francisco on June 15, 2025. The Giants sent Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks to Boston as part of the deal.
Now, Devers returns to Fenway as one of San Francisco’s leading offensive players. He is batting .244 with a .320 on-base percentage and .470 slugging percentage this season, while his 25 home runs and 69 RBIs across 127 games lead the Giants.
Interestingly, Devers has spent the entire 2026 season playing primarily first base for San Francisco after his resistance to moving away from third base became a major part of his departure from Boston.
Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
The Red Sox enter the weekend in a much stronger position than their former star. Boston is 68-59 and holds the final American League playoff spot, while San Francisco sits at 52-75 and is well outside the National League playoff race.
For Devers, however, the weekend is about more than the standings. His return gives him an opportunity to reconnect with the fans who watched him develop into one of Boston’s most important players.
ALSO SEE:
- MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets for Friday, Aug. 21
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Friday, Aug. 21
