Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced Tuesday that star third baseman Rafael Devers will miss the All-Star Game due to ongoing shoulder soreness. Devers, who was selected for the third All-Star game of his career on Sunday, will join teammates Jarren Duran and Tanner Houck in sitting out. Despite the injury, Devers is still scheduled to play in Tuesday night’s game against the Oakland Athletics.
Devers’ Injury History and Current Performance
Rafael Devers’ shoulder issues have been a concern for Red Sox and baseball fans alike. Earlier this season, Devers missed time in April due to shoulder soreness and a separate shoulder injury. These were the first shoulder-related problems in his eight-year MLB career. In addition to these, the 27-year-old has also dealt with a bone bruise and a knee injury in 2024.
Rafael Devers will skip the All-Star Game due to lingering shoulder soreness according to Alex Cora.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) July 9, 2024
Despite these setbacks, Devers is having one of his best seasons. Over his last 15 games, he has been on fire, hitting .328 with seven home runs and 17 RBIs. He is currently on track to potentially set career highs in multiple offensive categories. In 77 games this season, Devers is batting .293 (career-high: .311), with a .378 on-base percentage (potential career-best), and a .971 OPS (potential career-high). He has hit 21 home runs and driven in 55 runs this year. His 165 OPS+ ranks seventh in all of baseball, with New York Yankees superstar Aaron Judge leading the way at 206.
All-Star Game Roster Changes
Devers was selected as an infield reserve for this year’s MLB All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas. Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez secured the starting role at third base for the American League. Devers was one of six infield reserves chosen, and Baltimore Orioles rookie Jordan Westburg, who narrowly missed being an outright All-Star, has been named as his replacement.
Impact of Devers Missing the All-Star Game
For Red Sox fans, Devers missing the All-Star Game might not be a major concern. In fact, it could be beneficial for Boston to have only two players in the game instead of three. Devers has been regularly playing since recovering from his earlier injuries, and a break could be just what he needs to let his shoulder heal. The fact that this is not Devers’ first All-Star selection makes the decision easier.
This decision should not affect Boston’s approach to the trade deadline. Keeping their stars healthy is a top priority, and this move aligns with that strategy. The rumored interest in Los Angeles Angels utility man Luis Rengifo and various starting pitchers remains alive. Boston is making a smart decision in prioritizing Devers’ health, recognizing that a healthy Devers is more valuable than any potential trade acquisition.
