MLB Rumors: Rafael Devers And Red Sox 'Very Far Apart' On Extension Talks

With big-star extension talks happening all over baseball leading up to first pitch today and tomorrow, the Boston Red Sox were hoping to lock up All-Star third baseman Rafael Devers. But according to sources, the two sides are "very far off."

Can confirm, via source: Red Sox did make an extension offer to Rafael Devers, as @hgomez27 reported. The sides were very far off.

— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) April 6, 2022

According to Red Sox beat reporter Chris Cotillo, Devers, like Aaron Judge in New York, has said Opening Day is his deadline for getting anything done. Unlike Judge, however, Devers doesn't become a free agent until after the 2023 season.  

Rafael Devers and #RedSox are not making progress on a contract extension, source says. It is almost certain that his Opening Day deadline will pass without a new deal. Devers, 25, has two seasons left before free agency. @hgomez27 was first to report. @MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) April 7, 2022

Devers has said he doesn't want to talk during the season. Still time before he's a free agent (end of 2023). Considering this is the first time the sides have really talked about a deal not a major surprise they're far off. Would take last-minute Hail Mary to do deal before Fri

— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) April 6, 2022

 

Devers is just 25, and elevated himself to All-Star status in the 2021 season, blasting 38 homers with 113 RBIs, with an .890 OPS. 

A comp for Devers, Cleveland's superstar third baseman Jose Ramirez, just signed a 5-year, $124M extension with the Guardians, but Devers is four years younger, and playing in a much bigger market, so those numbers won't get it done for him. 

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