The Boston Red Sox have officially placed third baseman Rafael Devers on the injured list, ending his 2025 season due to ongoing shoulder inflammation. This news comes from Bob Nightengale of USA Today. In response, the team has called up infielder Mickey Gasper.
Red Sox All-Star 3B Rafael Devers’ season officially comes to an end, placed on the IL with shoulder inflammation.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) September 21, 2024
Devers has been dealing with shoulder pain for nearly two months, following an injury from a dive against the Colorado Rockies on July 23. He pressed on despite discomfort until being pulled from the game during the 11th inning of the Red Sox’s 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Twins last Friday, where he managed one hit and a walk before leaving.
Since the injury, Devers’ performance took a hit—his batting average plummeted from an impressive .362 in July to .216 in August and just .188 in September prior to his exit from the game.
Notably, he hit only four home runs in August and none in September, racking up just three RBIs over a span of games where he struck out 11 times. His diminishing effectiveness on the field was evident.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora commented, “Injuries aside, he was one of the best hitters for a significant stretch this season, and it was fun to watch. It’s disappointing because he really is our offense.” Cora highlighted that it was tough to watch Devers struggle in the last month.
Earlier this season, Devers faced additional injuries, including issues with his other shoulder and knee. Despite this, he made the All-Star team for the third time. Overall, he concluded the season with a solid slash line of .272/.354/.516, 143 hits, 87 runs, 28 home runs, and 83 RBIs before being placed on the IL.
With the Red Sox currently outside the playoff picture and only eight games left in the season, it makes sense for the team to prioritize Devers’ health over making a push for the postseason, especially as they sit third in the AL East with several teams in front of them.