Rafael Devers spring debut set for early next week

Image courtesy of The Boston Globe

Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers is preparing to play in his first spring training game early next week, according to skipper Alex Cora.

The slugger will play on either Tuesday against the Phillies or Wednesday against the Twins at JetBlue Park. Devers is expected to serve as the team’s designated hitter for both games.

Boston has been without their third baseman since Grapefruit League action began. He has been spending this spring strengthening his shoulders, which impacted him last season. He has taken live batting practice in recent days.

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“It will be great [to see him play]," Cora said. "He needs the reps on the field, but [he needs to] understand what he is working on. Obviously, [we are talking about] the shoulder. We have to be patient. The goal for him is to be ready for Texas [on Opening Day].”

Cora still won’t disclose where Devers will play once the regular season gets underway. Alex Bregman and Devers took grounders at third base on Friday morning and are battling for the starting third base job. Odds are Devers will be at the hot corner and Bregman will be at second base, unless the Red Sox move the left-handed hitter to designated hitter.

Who ends up as the Red Sox Opening Day second baseman?

“I’ve been answering this question a lot of times, and I’m going to give you the same answer: The decision will be made when we have to,” Cora said. “There is a lot of competition out there. Versatility and athleticism will come into play, and we’ll take the best 26 [players] to Texas. We are going to have our best defensive and offensive lineup for the first game of the season.”

Bregman had a big game on Friday afternoon, reaching base four times with two hits, a homer, a hit-by-pitch, a walk, and a stolen base, with two runs scored.