Luis Garcia Jr. is practicing at first base for the Washington Nationals as part of a potential positional shift to increase team versatility and address infield defense issues, with the team considering future options for first base and overall infield improvements ahead of the 2026 season.
The Red Sox signed Nathaniel Lowe to improve their lineup, especially against right-handed pitchers, which may lead to lineup adjustments involving Abraham Toro and Romy Gonzalez, with strategic use of platoons at first and second base depending on the opposing pitcher.
Red Sox top prospect Jhostynxon Garcia, primarily an outfielder, will get some reps at first base in Triple-A Worcester due to an overcrowded outfield, which could potentially open a path to the majors if he continues to perform well. The move reflects the team's strategic flexibility and Garcia's rising profile as a top prospect, though competition at first base remains stiff with other prospects and roster considerations.
Rafael Devers, traded to the San Francisco Giants, will make his first career start at first base, a position he previously declined to play for the Red Sox. Devers expressed willingness to adapt for the Giants, citing respect earned through his performance in Boston, despite dealing with a back injury that has affected his recent production.
Rafael Devers revealed that during a private meeting with Red Sox owner John Henry, he was asked to switch to first base, which he declined, citing concerns about injuries and team needs. His public and private disagreements over position changes contributed to the Red Sox trading him to the Giants shortly after.
Rafael Devers was traded from the Boston Red Sox to the Giants amid controversy over his public refusal to switch positions and communication issues, marking a surprising end to his Boston career.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora addressed Rafael Devers' willingness to play first base for the Giants, emphasizing that Devers is open to playing anywhere and that the team is moving forward without dwelling on past issues. Devers expressed his readiness to play any position, and Giants manager Bob Melvin outlined a plan for him to get comfortable at first base while also serving as a DH.
Rafael Devers has been traded from the Red Sox to the Giants, where he will play as a designated hitter and occasionally at first base, after initially refusing to switch positions earlier in his career. He expressed happiness about joining the Giants and meeting Barry Bonds, and the team plans to ease him into playing first base.
Rafael Devers's dissatisfaction with the Red Sox, stemming from position changes and perceived slights, contributed to his surprising trade to the Giants, highlighting internal conflicts within the team.
Rafael Devers has been traded from the Red Sox to the Giants, where he will serve as a designated hitter and learn to play first base, marking a significant position change after a complicated departure from Boston involving disagreements over his role and position.
The article argues that Rafael Devers should try playing first base for the Red Sox to help address their needs, criticizing the team's handling of the situation and highlighting examples of other star players successfully changing positions, emphasizing team flexibility and player cooperation.
The San Francisco Giants activated Jerar Encarnacion from the 60-day injured list, adding him to the roster and optioning Luis Matos to Triple-A. Encarnacion, who was sidelined with a broken hand, could provide additional depth at first base and as a designated hitter, especially against left-handed pitchers. The team is currently evaluating playing time between Wade and Encarnacion, with performance being the key factor. The roster move is part of ongoing adjustments as the Giants approach the trade deadline.
Bryce Harper discusses contract extension, his move to first base, the addition of Whit Merrifield to the Phillies, and bids farewell to former teammate Rhys Hoskins as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Bryce Harper, two-time NL MVP, is embracing a move from the outfield to first base for the Philadelphia Phillies, expressing willingness to adapt for the team's long-term success and acknowledging the urgency to win now. With seven years and $196 million left on his contract, Harper's shift to first base aligns with the organization's vision, as they aim to capitalize on their competitive window.
Bryce Harper arrives at spring training expressing his desire to finish his career with the Philadelphia Phillies and play into his 40s, accepting a move to first base from the outfield. With seven years and $196 million left on his contract, Harper aims for a longer deal and acknowledges the team's window to win a World Series, emphasizing his commitment to the organization's goals.