MLB rumors: 3 teams that lost out on Rafael Devers and their likely backup plan
By Tim Boyle
Rafael Devers is no longer available for these three teams, but it shouldn’t stop them from getting involved in MLB rumors for other big stars next winter.
Rafael Devers is a richer man today than he was even a few days ago. Offseason MLB rumors seemed to hint toward the star Boston Red Sox third baseman and his employer being far apart on a possible extension. The two sides did finally come together in an agreement on an 11-year deal worth $331 million.
Devers is a winner in this deal. So are the Red Sox. What about those other teams that believed they could get involved in MLB rumors about becoming a trade destination for him?
Those clubs will now need to turn their gaze elsewhere. These three teams specifically could have been landing spots for Devers as a trade option or even free agency next winter. They lost out. What plan should they have in mind?
1) MLB rumors: What the Phillies can do at third base next winter instead
The Philadelphia Phillies could have used Rafael Devers in 2023. The possibility of landing him in a trade would have been tough without subtracting at least one of their young pitching prospects from the farm. He would have been a desirable free agent target for them next season. Now they need to rethink everything.
Alec Bohm will remain the starting third baseman for the Phillies this season. Hopefully, for their sake, he isn’t as much of a butcher on the field. Bohm has shown he can hit at the big-league level. He could use a little more pop in his bat. As a minor player in the lineup, it’s acceptable.
Next offseason will be a time for the Phillies to find some more permanency at the position. Letting Rhys Hoskins walk could open up the possibility of shifting Bohm over to first base. They can also subtract him in a trade for an upgrade somewhere else. Regardless of what they do, the Phillies should make themselves heavily involved in any MLB rumors involving Matt Chapman.
The Toronto Blue Jays third baseman is the exact opposite of Bohm. He hits for power and plays Gold Glove defense. He does strike out a ton and doesn’t hit for a very good average. The defensive boost and increase in power should be enough for the Phillies to make him a primary target.
Chapman turns 30 in April. He’ll be one of the better fits for the Phillies roster and won’t even be the priciest third baseman on the market.