Red Sox Star Devers Sidelined by Hamstring Injury

Team prioritizes cautious recovery ahead of 2026 season start

Feb. 27, 2026 at 8:06pm

Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers was removed from the lineup for Friday's spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers due to tightness in his left hamstring. The Red Sox are taking a careful approach to Devers' recovery, as hamstring injuries can be challenging for position players and the team wants to avoid any lingering effects that could impact his performance during the regular season.

Why it matters

Devers is a key offensive catalyst for the Red Sox, having won two Silver Slugger awards. His availability is critical to the team's pursuit of a championship, so the Red Sox are prioritizing his long-term health over immediate playing time during spring training.

The details

Hamstring tightness is a common occurrence during spring training, but the Red Sox medical team is expected to follow a cautious protocol given Devers' importance to the roster. The team is focused on maintaining his health to maximize his offensive contributions, after he was traded to the San Francisco Giants midway through the 2025 season following disagreements with the Red Sox front office about his defensive role.

  • Devers was scratched from Friday's spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The players

Rafael Devers

A three-time All-Star third baseman for the Boston Red Sox, known for his offensive prowess and two-time Silver Slugger award winner.

Boston Red Sox

A professional baseball team based in Boston, Massachusetts, and a member of the American League East division of Major League Baseball.

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What’s next

With several weeks remaining before Opening Day, the timing allows for Devers to potentially recover fully from this early hamstring tightness without rushing. Daily updates on Devers' condition are expected as the medical staff continues their assessments.

The takeaway

This injury represents a moment for the Red Sox and their fans to remain vigilant but hopeful that the slugger will be ready to lead the team when the regular season begins. The team's cautious approach to Devers' recovery highlights their commitment to prioritizing his long-term health and maximizing his offensive contributions.