What is going on with Rafael Devers?

At the time of writing this article, the Boston Red Sox have played in five regular-season games so far. In that stretch, former three-time All-Star Rafael Devers is off the rough start, one that is breaking records.

The Red Sox had decided to make Devers the team's designated hitter this season, with their offseason signing of third baseman Alex Bregman being notoriously better defensively. Devers has led the league in errors at third seven times throughout his major league career, so the move seemed like a no-brainer.

However, Devers felt the team should keep him at third since it has been his position on the team this entire time. This comment led to some uncomfortable press for the Red Sox, with manager Alex Cora and Bregman being asked about the comment made by Devers in the following days.

Eventually, something happened in the locker room as we crept closer to opening day, with Devers eventually saying he was ok with the position change. After that small controversy stirred up some worries, many thought the move would ultimately be better for Devers, as he could now focus on doing what he did best.

As it stands now, the decision has been a move that may have broken one of the most dangerous hitters on the team.

Through his first 19 at bats, Devers has struck out 15 times and has not yet recorded a hit. This has set a Major League Baseball record for most strikeouts in a player's first 5 games.

This historically bad start could have something to do with the decision to take him away from playing third base. The pressure of having only one job to hit the ball might have Devers thinking too much at the plate rather than being the offensive force he once was.

High strikeout numbers are nothing new to mostly pure power hitters. This alarming pace he is on could just be a slow start to the season. Strikeouts are also seen as less problematic for power hitters like Devers in today's game, as long as the home run numbers remain high.

The two-time Silver Slugger hopefully can find his footing in the batter's box again and return to form as the Red Sox offense will need him to step up after the team has started the 2025 season with a 1-4 record.

The team is currently in Baltimore playing in the division against the Orioles. We shall see if Devers is able to notch his first hit in Oriole Park at Camden Yards, or if the wait will continue for the struggling superstar.

Charles Wesolowski is a first-year majoring in journalism. To contact him, email cjw6772@psu.edu.