The Boston Red Sox believed the signing of Alex Bregman would make them a contender. The addition of a two-time World Series champion and former Gold Glove winner is a boost for their lineup and in the field. But what the Red Sox didn’t expect was the domino effect Bregman’s arrival would have on the infield.
The domino effect was apparent when Rafael Devers addressed the media on Monday morning. After defiantly saying he was a third baseman and refusing to become a designated hitter if the Red Sox asked, Devers admitted he would be open to the idea of a trade.
A deal is unlikely as Devers has nine years left on his contract and is one of the worst defensive third basemen in baseball. But with Bregman’s arrival and the possibility that top prospect Kristian Campbell breaks camp with the team, Devers may have to look for suitors or come to grips with the fact he needs to play third base.
So who could be interested in the 28-year-old? Here’s a look at some potential trade partners.
Detroit Tigers
The Tigers came into the offseason with plenty of excitement but it didn’t result in big spending over the winter. Detroit added Gleyber Torres and Jack Flaherty in free agency but other than that, their roster hasn’t changed much from last year’s surprising playoff run.
This wasn’t due to a lack of effort. The Tigers were connected to Bregman throughout his free agent tour and offered more money before he chose to sign with the Red Sox. Although a three-year, $120 million contract with an opt-out could allow him to hit the market and try to get a long-term contract next offseason, Detroit was interested in adding another big salary to the payroll.
So could Devers be their door prize? It depends on a few factors.
Jace Jung was a former top prospect in the Tigers system and projects as the team’s Opening Day third baseman. Although the 23-year-old made his major league debut last season, his performance didn’t hint that a superstar turn is coming, hitting .241/.362/.304 with no home runs and three RBI in 34 games.
Even if Jung starts the year in the lineup, things could go south quickly if he struggles out of the gate.
This could lead the Tigers into the midseason trade market. Detroit is projected to have an 81-81 record according to FanGraphs’ ZIPS projections but it’s only four games behind the Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins, who are both projected to finish with a record of 85-77.
With a staff that includes reigning Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal and promising arms in Reese Olson, Casey Mize and Jackson Jobe, the Tigers could be in all-in mode sooner than later. They also have top prospects in Jobe and Max Clark to serve as a centerpiece for a deal.
Would it be enough to acquire Devers? That remains to be seen. But it’s a compelling case for a promising team to put their path to contention into overdrive.