Red Sox's Devers: Why The Pre-Game Grounders? Cora Explains

James

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Post on Jun 15, 2025

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Red Sox's Devers: Why the Pre-Game Grounders? Cora Explains the Ritual

Rafael Devers, the Red Sox's star third baseman, has a pre-game ritual that's caught the attention of fans and analysts alike: a seemingly endless stream of ground balls fielded before every game. But what's the reasoning behind this meticulous routine? Manager Alex Cora recently shed light on Devers's pre-game preparation, revealing a dedication to fundamentals and a quest for consistent performance.

This isn't just about warming up; it's a deeply ingrained habit reflecting Devers's commitment to excellence. The pre-game grounders aren't haphazard; they're a deliberate process aimed at several key areas of his game.

<h3>Fine-Tuning the Fundamentals: More Than Just a Warm-Up</h3>

Cora emphasized that the ground balls aren't simply a way to loosen up. "For Raffy, it's about feel," Cora explained in a recent press conference. "He's incredibly focused on his footwork, his glove work, and making sure his hands are ready. Those pre-game grounders are a crucial part of his preparation." This highlights a commitment to fundamental skills, often overlooked in the excitement of the game itself. This dedication to perfecting the basics is a key factor in Devers's consistent success at the plate and in the field.

Many elite athletes, across various sports, have pre-game rituals. Think of the meticulous routines of basketball players before free throws or golfers' pre-shot routines. Devers's ground ball practice falls into this category, demonstrating a level of preparation that separates the truly great from the merely good. This focus on preparation speaks volumes about his mental fortitude and approach to the game.

<h3>Mental Preparation: Finding the Zone</h3>

Beyond the physical aspect, Cora hinted at a mental component to Devers's routine. The repetitive nature of fielding grounders could serve as a form of meditation, helping Devers focus and clear his mind before the pressure of the game begins. This mental aspect is often undervalued but crucial for peak performance under pressure. This mental preparation helps him enter the game in a state of focus and readiness.

<h3>The Impact on Performance: Consistency is Key</h3>

The results speak for themselves. Devers has consistently been one of the Red Sox's most productive players, showcasing both power and defensive prowess. His pre-game ritual, while seemingly simple, contributes to his consistent performance. This unwavering dedication to his routine is a testament to his work ethic and commitment to the team.

This detailed pre-game ritual is a powerful illustration of the dedication required at the highest levels of professional baseball. It showcases Devers's meticulous approach and reinforces the importance of fundamental skills, even for a player of his caliber. The next time you see Devers fielding those pre-game grounders, remember it's more than just a warm-up; it's a crucial element of his path to success.

Keywords: Rafael Devers, Red Sox, pre-game routine, ground balls, Alex Cora, baseball, MLB, preparation, performance, mental game, fundamentals, professional baseball, Boston Red Sox

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