BOSTON – The contentious split between Rafael Devers and the Boston Red Sox continues to rage as legend David Ortiz – aka “Big Papi” – publicly criticized his junior. In a statement that shocked the American baseball community, Ortiz asserted that the Red Sox did not disrespect Devers – but that he was the one who “destroyed himself.”
“Red Sox didn’t disrespect Devers. He disrespected himself. He comes to Spring Training out of shape and being the third baseman with the worst defense.” — David Ortiz, via WJDA Boston
Ortiz, who is considered a living symbol of the Red Sox, did not hesitate to attack Devers, saying that he was no longer suitable for the team’s playing standards. According to Ortiz, Devers came to Spring Training in poor shape, had a clear decline in form and became the weakest defense at the third baseman position. “They signed a Gold Glove. He refused to move – how could the team not change direction?”
Not only did Ortiz not stop at the professional aspect, he also revealed that he had tried to help Devers by sending private messages several times, but received no response. “I spoke up because he is Dominican, like me. But I can’t help him if he doesn’t open up.”
After Ortiz’s statement, a wave of mixed opinions arose. Some said Big Papi was “speaking for the Red Sox,” while others – including Manny Ramirez and Pedro Martínez – spoke up to defend Devers: “The Red Sox are not transparent. They don’t give Devers a chance to express themselves, then blame him.” — Pedro Martínez shared on a sports podcast
On social media, Red Sox fans were also divided: one side supported Ortiz’s outspoken stance, the other said “showing your back to people.”
After a tumultuous season, Rafael Devers has officially joined the San Francisco Giants. This is considered a step to reaffirm himself after a series of tense days with the Red Sox leadership.
Experts say that the rematch between the Giants and the Red Sox at Oracle Park next month will be the center of attention, where Devers will have the opportunity to “answer with a bat” to his former team and the person who once guided his spirit – David Ortiz.
The war of words between a Red Sox legend and a star who was once the hope of the team is making the atmosphere in Boston hotter than ever. Will Devers prove Ortiz wrong, or will Big Papi be right once again?