Red Sox Brass Had This New Conversation With Rafael Devers

The current Rafael Devers situation is the top priority for the Boston Red Sox.

It took enough priority that chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, president Sam Kennedy and principal owner John Henry made the trip to Kansas City to be with the team. Breslow told reporters that Henry and Red Sox manager Alex Cora had a conversation with Devers Friday.

Devers gave fairly honest comments Thursday about the Red Sox asking him to move to first base after Triston Casas’ season-ending injury to help the roster. Boston’s brass opened up about the state of conversations Friday.

“There were conversations,” Breslow told reporters, as seen on NESN’s pregame coverage. “John, Sam and I flew out earlier today. It was actually John who spoke directly with Raffy. It was important based on the situation that unfolded yesterday to come out here and have an honest conversation about what we value as an organization and what we believe is important to the Boston Red Sox. That being great teammates. We think we had a productive conversation. John seems to have had a productive conversation. That’s where things stand right now.”

“I thought it was productive,” Cora told reporters, as seen on NESN’s postgame coverage. “Obviously, having everyone here in the same place, it means a lot. Not only for us on the ground but the players and Raffy too. It was good.”

Breslow found it “unfortunate” to end up in a spot like this for the team and a star player, but both he and Cora respect Devers’ honesty with the Red Sox.

“It’s one of those days that you try and avoid because of what happened yesterday,” Cora said. “Like I told Raffy and I said it a million times in Ft. Myers, we don’t tell players what not to say. We respect them and we respect their opinions. Sometimes, we disagree. Most of the time, we do agree. To get to this point is kind of weird. The effort that they made to get here and be part of the solution instead of making a big issue means a lot.”

“It was a good conversation,” Cora continued. “He expressed his feelings. John did the same thing. I think the most important thing here is we’re trying to accomplish something big here. Obviously, there’s changes in the roster. Situations that happen. You have to adjust.”

“It was a chance for honest, candid exchange,” Breslow said. “I think the most important thing here is we think we’ve got a good team that’s capable of winning a bunch of games and meaningful games down the stretch. That’s what we need to remain focused on.”

“There was some misunderstanding on the communication or an opportunity to provide more clear communication,” Breslow added. “Hopefully that was a step in the right direction here today.”

Breslow and Cora each gave their opinions on what it takes to be a good teammate with perspective from each of their playing careers that included time with the Red Sox.

“I think No. 1 is being honest and open with communication,” Breslow said. “I think it is recognizing when there is an opportunity to step up when there’s a need for the group to be put above any individual achievement or accomplishment. I think that’s important to get reinforced with what we’re hoping to accomplish.”

“I show up everyday, did everything possible for my peers,” Cora reflected. “Help them to be better players. Went out there and did my best.