The 2018 Boston Red Sox lineup should look like this

5. 3B Rafael Devers

Rafael Devers was called up before the Boston Red Sox really wanted him in the majors last season, and while his defense still needs a lot of work, he proved he can cut it as a hitter in this league. In 58 games in 2017, Devers hit .284 with 10 home runs and 30 RBI. That translates to a 162 game average of 28 homers and 84 RBI. Of course, he won’t play every game in 2018 so let’s project 20 long balls and 65 RBI for the up and coming slugger. He will be able to learn from both Ramirez and Martinez for a full season, and he could develop into a true power hitter over the next few years.

As the #5 hitter, Devers also won’t have to deal with as much pressure on him. Hanley Ramirez and J.D. Martinez will be counted on to provide most of the damage, and Devers will simply be able to relax and do what he does. He will still hit the ball extremely well, but his 2018 focus should be on defense. He was just a .906 fielder at third base last season as he committed 14 errors. Those numbers will have to improve.