MLB Rumors: Giants Rejected Red Sox' Original Rafael Devers Trade Offer

June 24, 2025 ,
San Francisco Giants infielder Rafael Devers reacts after at bat in 2025 game.

When the Boston Red Sox traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants, the move stunned the baseball world. 

San Francisco took on the full weight of Devers’ $313 million contract, but Boston fans were left asking: was that financial relief enough? While the Sox did get four players in return, headlined by pitching prospect Kyle Harrison, the trade has raised serious questions, especially since the team’s top target, Bryce Eldridge, was left out of the deal.

Harrison Leads the Return, But Prospect Package Lacks Top-End Spark

Boston’s return included major leaguers Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison, along with prospects James Tibbs III and Jose Bello. Hicks is a hard-throwing righty who’s struggled in a starting role and looks more like a bullpen piece. Harrison, once a top prospect, was sent straight to Triple-A Worcester to refine a new cutter-sinker combo. 

Meanwhile, Tibbs brings serious pop from the left side but is limited defensively and buried in Boston’s crowded outfield depth. Bello is an intriguing arm in rookie ball, but his mechanics may ultimately push him to the bullpen. 

Red Sox Tried - and Failed - to Land Bryce Eldridge

According to The Athletic, Boston initially pushed hard for 6-foot-7 slugger Bryce Eldridge, San Francisco’s top prospect and the No. 19 overall player in MLB Pipeline’s rankings. The Red Sox viewed him as a long-term solution at first base, especially with Triston Casas sidelined and his future uncertain. 

But the Giants refused to include Eldridge in the deal. 

The Red Sox chose not to escalate talks further and pivoted to a more pitching-focused return, likely valuing the $250+ million in salary relief as a win in itself. Still, many feel they could’ve, and should’ve, held out for more.

Photo Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | NHL Rumors