Giants Acquire Rafael Devers from Red Sox in Major Deal
Published On: June 16, 2025.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball, the Boston Red Sox have traded All-Star slugger Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. The deal, finalized on Sunday, June 15, 2025, marks a significant shift for both franchises.
Devers, 28, has been a cornerstone of the Red Sox lineup since his debut in 2017. Over his eight seasons in Boston, he established himself as one of the premier hitters in the league, earning three All-Star selections and two Silver Slugger Awards. In 2023, he signed an 11-year, $313.5 million extension, making him the highest-paid player in Red Sox history. This season, he was batting .272 with 15 home runs and a .905 OPS, continuing to demonstrate his elite offensive capabilities.
The trade package sent to Boston includes left-handed pitcher Kyle Harrison, right-hander Jordan Hicks, and two prospects: outfielder James Tibbs III and right-handed pitcher Jose Bello. The Giants are also assuming the remaining $250 million on Devers’s contract through 2033. This aggressive move by San Francisco reflects their commitment to contending in the National League West, where they currently trail the division-leading Dodgers by just two games.
For the Red Sox, the decision to part ways with Devers comes amid internal tensions. Earlier in the season, Devers expressed dissatisfaction when asked to transition from third base to designated hitter following the signing of Alex Bregman. The situation escalated when he was later asked to play first base due to an injury to Triston Casas. Devers declined, stating that the front office should find another player for the position. These disagreements highlighted a rift between Devers and the team's management, leading to his eventual departure.
The trade signals a new direction for the Red Sox, who are now poised to integrate top prospect Roman Anthony into their lineup. Additionally, the acquisition of Harrison and Hicks bolsters their pitching staff, addressing areas of need as they look to remain competitive in the American League East.
For the Giants, Devers's arrival provides a much-needed power boost to their lineup. With Matt Chapman entrenched at third base, Devers is expected to serve as the team's designated hitter, though his versatility could allow for occasional appearances at first base. His left-handed bat is particularly valuable in the Giants' home park, Oracle Park, which has historically favored right-handed hitters.
This trade not only reshapes the rosters of both teams but also sets the stage for an intriguing matchup when the Red Sox visit San Francisco later this week. The series will mark Devers's first games against his former team, adding an extra layer of drama to what is already a pivotal stretch for both clubs.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Devers to see if he can continue his All-Star form in the National League, and on the Red Sox to assess how their new-look roster performs without one of their most prolific hitters. The ramifications of this trade will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.