The Boston Red Sox have had their sights set on free agent third baseman Alex Bregman to bring some right-handed pop to their lineup, but some roster questions stand in the way of a potential contract between the two parties.
Bregman has been one of the best defensive third basemen in the American League for quite some time, and he was rewarded with his first Gold Glove award for his efforts in 2024. Boston’s defense at the hot corner has been lacking since Rafael Devers took over, and if the Sox signed Bregman, he would be the preferable option at third base. Devers’ willingness to switch positions, however, has been debated.
But he appears to be more accepting of a move than fans and reporters initially expected — at least, according to his Instagram activity. Red Sox podcast “Section 10” posted an Instagram reel about their desire to have Bregman join the team as the third baseman, a move that would turn Devers into a permanent designated hitter. Devers liked the post, which could mean a few different things.
The third baseman spoke out against ownership’s recent lack of spending at last winter’s spring training. He said through a translator that it’s clear the Red Sox need help from the free agent market, and he seemingly stands by that statement.
Rafael Devers likes Instagram post that advocates for Red Sox to sign Alex Bregman
Who will be the Red Sox starting 3B in 2025? pic.twitter.com/2PdI6QIyI5
— Section 10 Podcast (@Section10Pod) December 18, 2024
The clip Devers liked highlights Bregman’s leadership skills along with his defensive talent. Based on the result from last season (81-81, 115 errors), the Red Sox could benefit from both of those things, and Devers likely agrees.
Devers also could’ve liked the post as a motivator of sorts. The 28-year-old’s defense took a step in the right direction last season. He’s ranked No. 1 in errors among American League third basemen every year since he took over the position in 2018, but he made a career-best 12 errors at third base in 2024. His defense looked smoother despite his shoulder injuries, and he may hope to retain the job after he took a step forward last year.
Most of Red Sox Nation hopes Devers intended to show he wants Bregman in Boston. The longtime Astro would couple with a healthy Trevor Story to bring leadership to the clubhouse, righty pop and rock-solid defense to the left side of the infield.
Devers, the highest-paid Red Sox in history, should have some influence with the front office as “the guy” in the clubhouse. Hopefully, the men in charge are paying attention to his Instagram.
