MLB Trade Rumors: Top 3 Rafael Devers Landing Spots

May 14, 2025 , , ,
Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rafael Devers hits a home run during 2025 game.

With tensions rising between Rafael Devers and the Boston Red Sox, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller believes a trade this offseason is more likely than ever. 

The All-Star third baseman, who recently refused to move to first base in the wake of Triston Casas’ injury, could become a major trade chip. If Boston decides to move on, Miller has ranked the top three potential landing spots for Devers.

Washington Nationals

Washington tops Miller’s list as the team best positioned to make a splash. Since losing Anthony Rendon in 2019, third base has been a disaster for the Nationals, with 21 players combining for minimal production. But with young stars like James Wood, CJ Abrams, and MacKenzie Gore establishing a solid core, the Nationals could be one major bat away from true contention. Devers fits the bill and wouldn’t be a financial burden—Washington has the lowest projected payroll in MLB for 2026 and ample room to absorb his contract. Prospect Brady House is in the picture, but if he can shift to first base (something Devers won’t do), both corner infield problems could be solved at once.

Chicago Cubs

Next up are the Cubs, who remain unsettled at third base since Kris Bryant's departure. Former top pick Matt Shaw is promising, but his rocky MLB debut and current stint in Triple-A Iowa raise questions. Acquiring Devers would lock down a power bat at the hot corner through 2033. The team also has deep prospect capital to pull off such a move. A wildcard is whether the Cubs pursue a mega-deal with free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker instead, but if they rely on prospects like Owen Caissie or Kevin Alcántara to replace Cody Bellinger long-term, they could afford to go all-in for Devers.

St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals’ inclusion might feel ironic after Boston’s offseason flirtation with acquiring Nolan Arenado, but a Devers-for-St. Louis swap could now make sense—especially with former Red Sox boss Chaim Bloom expected to take a leading role in the Cardinals' front office. Arenado’s willingness to shift to first base has been documented, opening the door for a left side infield tandem featuring both All-Stars. Financial hurdles exist, but with nearly $50 million in payroll coming off the books and no major long-term commitments beyond 2027, St. Louis could maneuver around those limitations.

Photo Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

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