Rafael Devers contract expectations revealed: Red Sox on the clock

Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers is willing to listen to long-term contract offers from Chaim Bloom and the front office after they avoided arbitration.

Avoiding another standoff with a star player was the first step for Chaim Bloom and Co. as they hope to sign Rafael Devers long-term before he’s a free agent next Winter. Doing so prior to Spring Training would be a good start.

A mistake Boston made with Xander Bogaerts was offering him less than he was worth prior to his final season with the Red Sox. Bogaerts considered it an insult, and the lowball offer ultimately cost Boston in the trust department. There was no way to make up that much ground, and Bogaerts ultimately signed with the San Diego Padres at the Winter Meetings.

Red Sox: Rafael Devers contract expectations

After avoiding arbitration with Rafael Devers, Boston is on good terms. They should take advantage of that good will and sign Devers to the $300 million deal he wants while they still have a chance.

Per MLB insider Jon Heyman, “Rafael Devers camp and Red Sox remain engaged in multiyear talks. Sides agreed at $17.5M for 2023, a nice sign. Discussion said to be “steady” on multiyear possibility. Devers has been seeking $300M plus, and recent star deals may only have reinforced that goal.”

If that is the goal, the perhaps the Sox can meet Devers there. Failing to do so now would waste the positive feelings Devers currently has for Boston, as he was clearly disappointed when Bogaerts left for San Diego. The two were friends, and fellow All-Star talents in the Sox lineup.

After witnessing what the likes of Aaron Judge and Trea Turner received this offseason, Devers will want over $300 million, given his age and talent level. If he doesn’t get it from Boston, he’ll seek that money elsewhere.