Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers got his first hit of the 2025 season on Wednesday, driving in a run and scoring one for himself in a 3-0 win over the Baltimore Orioles. Devers’ two-hit performance came after a dismal start to the year, where he had recorded just two hits in 19 at-bats with 15 strikeouts.
The game marked a turning point for Devers, who had been struggling at the plate and with his timing. He pulled a double off Orioles pitcher Zach Eflin in the fifth inning, scoring Ceddanne Rafaela and giving the Red Sox a 3-0 lead. This hit came after a long stretch of strikeouts, including three or more times in four of six games.
The victory lifted the Red Sox to a 2-4 record, while Devers finished with a 2-for-4 showing on the day. Fellow pitcher Garrett Crochet pitched eight scoreless innings, and closer Aroldis Chapman earned his first save of the season. The win was also significant for manager Alex Cora, who navigated a situation where Devers had initially pushed to be the team’s third baseman.
Cora eventually convinced Devers that he was willing to help the team in other ways, supporting him as he worked on improving his swing mechanics and batting stance. This coaching paid off on Wednesday, with Devers delivering a breakthrough hit that could be a turning point in his season.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/article/rafael-devers-gets-1st-hit-of-2025-season-after-15-strikeouts-in-19-at-bats-as-red-sox-beat-orioles-003527950.html