Devers penciled in for 2025 Grapefruit League debut

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers is scheduled to play his first Spring Training game early next week, according to manager Alex Cora. Devers will either play Tuesday against the Phillies or Wednesday against the Twins, likely as the designated hitter. Both games will be played at JetBlue Park at Fenway South.

Devers has spent the spring strengthening his shoulders, which ailed him last season. He has taken live batting practice in recent days.

“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 declined to say where Devers will play to start the regular season. Devers has been Boston’s everyday third baseman for the past seven seasons, but Alex Bregman, who was signed by the club on Feb. 15, could take over the spot if Cora and the Red Sox determine that's what's best for the team and the roster. Bregman was in Friday’s starting lineup at third base against the Marlins, but he will play second base if Boston ultimately decides to keep Devers at third.

“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.”