Boston Red Sox's Devers' Ground Ball Work: Manager Cora's Insight

James

2 min read

Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Boston Red Sox's Devers' Ground Ball Work: Manager Cora's Insight

Rafael Devers, the Boston Red Sox's star third baseman, has long been known for his prodigious power. However, this season, a subtle yet significant shift in his game has caught the eye of manager Alex Cora: improved ground ball defense. This change, though seemingly minor, could be a game-changer for the Red Sox's postseason hopes.

The narrative surrounding Devers has often focused on his offensive prowess – his towering home runs, timely RBIs, and consistent batting average. But Cora's recent comments highlight a crucial evolution in Devers' all-around play: his enhanced ground ball handling. This isn't just about making routine plays; it's about showcasing improved positioning, quicker reactions, and a more confident approach to fielding.

<h3>A Focus on Fundamentals</h3>

Cora, known for his meticulous attention to detail and player development, has praised Devers' commitment to refining his defensive skills. "Rafa's been working incredibly hard on his ground balls," Cora stated in a recent press conference. "He's focused on his footwork, his glovework, and his overall positioning. It's been a noticeable improvement." This dedication to fundamentals speaks volumes about Devers' maturity as a player and his desire to become a more well-rounded contributor to the team.

This improvement isn't just anecdotal; the statistics are starting to reflect it. While a comprehensive analysis requires a larger sample size, early indicators suggest a decrease in errors and an increase in successful plays on ground balls. This enhanced defensive performance complements his already stellar offensive contributions, making him an even more valuable asset to the Red Sox lineup.

<h3>The Impact on the Team</h3>

Devers' improved ground ball defense has a ripple effect on the entire Red Sox team. A strong third baseman provides stability to the infield, allowing for better communication and smoother transitions during crucial moments in a game. This improved defense can lead to fewer runs allowed, ultimately impacting the team's win-loss record. This is especially critical during close games, where even a single extra out can swing the momentum.

<h3>Looking Ahead</h3>

As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to track Devers' continued development in this area. His improved ground ball handling could be the difference between a successful playoff run and an early exit. While his power hitting will always be a key component of his game, this enhanced defensive prowess adds another layer of excellence, solidifying his position as one of the most complete players in the league. The Red Sox faithful, and baseball fans in general, are sure to be watching closely.

Keywords: Rafael Devers, Boston Red Sox, Alex Cora, ground ball defense, MLB, baseball, defensive improvement, postseason, playoff race, third baseman, player development, MLB news, Red Sox news.