Red Sox’s Rafael Devers Confirms He’s Playing Through Injury

Boston Red Sox star slugger Rafael Devers provided more clarity on his health.

During Sunday night’s win over the Yankees, Devers pulled up while running to first base on a ground ball. Red Sox manager Alex Cora told reporters Devers slowing down was “not a lack of hustle.“

Devers updated his condition following Wednesday’s 4-3 win over the Tampa Bay Rays. The 28-year-old told the Boston Globe’s Peter Abraham he’s played through a groin strain, but is making progress.

“I’m feeling better now,” Devers told Abraham. “It’s better running.”

The issue hasn’t seemed to hinder Devers. Following Sunday’s baserunning incident, the three-time All-Star crushed a home run in the final inning of an 11-7 victory.

A shoulder injury ended Devers’ 2024 season early and appeared to impact his offseason preparation. Devers struck out 15 times in five hitless March games, but he’s now batting .276/.405/.506 with 14 home runs.

Any lingering groin issues may only solidify Devers as the permanent full-time designated hitter.

On Wednesday, Red Sox CEO Sam Kennedy told NESN’s Tom Caron that it was “good to see” Devers fielding ground balls before the game. He predicted the Silver Slugger would play defense if needed.

However, Red Sox general manager Craig Breslow wouldn’t commit to any plans during Thursday’s appearance on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show.”

“Raffy is extremely competitive,” Breslow said. “He’s also emotional, but he cares deeply about the team and deeply about winning. He ends up doing the right thing, and that’s all we can ask. Right now, the right thing for him is to continue to anchor the lineup and help us put runs on the board.”

Fresh off hitting his 30th career home run against the Yankees, Devers will look to keep tormenting Boston’s long-time rival during another three-game series starting Friday.