Craig Breslow Explains Red Sox’s Notable Rafael Devers Decision

Wednesday provided an opportunity for the Red Sox and one of their best players, but Boston chose not to take it.

Alex Bregman landing on the paternity list created a brief vacancy at third base for the series finale in Tampa Bay. In a vacuum, Rafael Devers could have returned to his old position for a one-game cameo before Bregman returned. Instead, the Red Sox called up Nick Sogard from Triple-A and started Romy González at third in their 1-0 win at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

The decision wasn’t a stunner, as Alex Cora at the end of spring training indicated Devers would not be among Boston’s backup options at third base. However, it was nonetheless noteworthy that the Red Sox manager stuck with his plan, especially considering all of the ups and downs the club encountered through the first few weeks of the season.

Appearing on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show” on Thursday, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow explained why Devers wasn’t considered as a replacement at the hot corner.

“I think it’s an opportunity to get guys into the lineup that we want to make sure aren’t sitting for long, whether that’s Romy or Hammy (David Hamilton),” Breslow said. “Raffy is obviously going through a transition in terms of his role and we want to make sure that we’re doing everything we possibly can to make sure that transition is as easy as possible. Sometimes, adding things to one’s plate can make it a little bit more complicated.”

Cora’s recent decision, coupled with Breslow’s remarks, made it abundantly clear Devers won’t dust off his glove at any point this season, seemingly even if the Red Sox need to tap deep into their depth. Boston brass has a clear vision for the three-time All-Star, and it has no plans to stray from it.

Devers will try to do damage with the bat this weekend when the Red Sox host the Chicago White Sox for a four-game set.