Rafael Devers Vows To Play Field In Giants Introduction

Rafael Devers was introduced as a member of the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday afternoon. After several members of the Giants’ front office expressed their excitement about acquiring Devers, the former Red Sox slugger made a statement.

In his statement, he took an opportunity to thank the Red Sox for signing him as a prospect and giving him the opportunity to be a major leaguer. He also spoke about what his role would be with the Giants.

“I’m happy to be here with the San Francisco Giants,” Devers said through his translator. “I will give my 100% effort around the field.”

It’s not unusual for a player to promise to give one hundred percent. That’s a level of commitment that’s expected for a professional athlete, especially for one making $300 million.

It’s notable that Devers specified “around the field” because it was a point of contention at the end of his tenure with Boston. The designated hitter was very vocal about not wanting to be a DH in spring training, and later wasn’t interested in playing first base following the injury to Triston Casas.

Devers later said, “They’re the men in charge. I’m here to play wherever they want me to play.”

Giants manager Bob Melvin said that the team would play Devers at both designated hitter and first base.

“He’s gonna DH today, he’s gonna hit in the three spot,” Melvin told the media. “We’re gonna work him in and get him some ground balls at first to make sure he’s comfortable before we put him there. That’s pretty much the way we look at it right now. A little bit of DH and a little bit of first.”