Overview

• Rafael Devers has gone hitless in his first 19 at-bats, with 15 strikeouts, setting an MLB record for strikeouts in the first five games of a season.
• Devers' struggles follow his transition to a full-time designated hitter role after being replaced at third base by Alex Bregman, which he initially resisted.
• Delayed spring training and lingering shoulder issues have been cited as factors in Devers' poor start, though both he and manager Alex Cora insist his shoulder is no longer a concern.
• Former Red Sox pitcher Jonathan Papelbon criticized Devers' physical condition, suggesting he may be out of shape, while others speculate his mindset and adjustment period may also play a role.
• Despite the slump, both Devers and Alex Cora have expressed confidence in his ability to recover, with Cora emphasizing the small sample size and signs of improvement in his plate approach.