SAN FRANCISCO, Cali. — Rafael Devers, the former Boston Red Sox star, will face his old team for the first time since his stunning trade to the San Francisco Giants, taking the field at Oracle Park on Friday at 10:15 p.m. ET (7:15 p.m. PT).
The three-game series marks a dramatic reunion, with Devers donning the Giants’ cream-and-orange uniform after nine seasons and a 2018 World Series title with Boston. The blockbuster trade, announced June 15, sent Devers to San Francisco for pitchers Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison, outfield prospect James Tibbs III, and pitching prospect Jose Bello.
Devers, 28, has quickly become a fan favorite in San Francisco, debuting with a 2-for-5 performance, including an RBI double, in a 3-2 loss to Cleveland on June 17. Despite going 0-for-3 the next game, his .272/.401/.504 slash line, 15 home runs, and 58 RBIs through 73 games this season underscore his value as the Giants’ most potent hitter since Barry Bonds. His willingness to play any position—likely splitting time between designated hitter and first base—contrasts with his reluctance to move from third base in Boston, where tensions over positional changes with Alex Bregman and Triston Casas’ injury fueled his departure.
“It’ll be weird seeing him in those colors,” Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story said. “Once the game starts, it’s about winning.” Manager Alex Cora echoed the sentiment, noting the awkwardness of the recent trade but emphasizing competition: “He’s gonna try to kick our ass, and we’re gonna do the same.”
The Giants, second in the NL West at 41-30, aim to leverage Devers’ bat to boost an offense ranked 15th in runs scored. Boston, at 37-36 and fourth in the AL East, rides a hot streak with nine wins in 11 games but faces a challenge replacing Devers’ production.
It’s Rafael Devers against the Boston Red Sox. You won’t want to miss this.
How to Watch and Listen:
- TV: The game airs on MLB Network and is free on MLB.TV. In Boston, NESN will broadcast the matchup. Fans can stream via DIRECTV or FuboTV, both offering free trials.
- Radio: Giants fans can tune into KNBR 680 AM/104.5 FM, while Red Sox listeners can catch the game on WEEI 93.7 FM. MLB.TV’s radio package provides blackout-free audio.
- Tickets: Oracle Park anticipates a large crowd, with thousands of tickets sold post-trade. Visit www.mlb.com/giants for availability.
Devers’ introductory press conference drew Giants legend Barry Bonds and a warm ovation from 36,222 fans, signaling high expectations. As he steps into the batter’s box, possibly at first base against his former team, the emotional stakes and competitive fire promise an unforgettable night at Oracle Park.
Rafael Devers won’t have to wait long to see his former club, the Boston Red Sox.
In the meantime, check out LAFC’s stunning defeat to ES Tunis here.
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Giants’ Rafael Devers Faces Red Sox for First Time