The San Francisco Giants are set to play the Boston Red Sox this weekend, which brings two key points to the forefront. First, the irony of the matchup, and second, the spotlight is on Rafael Devers, who was recently traded from Boston to San Francisco in a surprising move.

In pregame interactions, Devers addressed inquiries concerning both his new and former teams. He revealed that he would have been willing to shift to first base if the Red Sox had asked him during the spring training, despite the fact that his relationship with the team soured when they initially proposed he move from third base for the signing of Alex Bregman. Devers declined at first but later agreed.

This consideration of position changes came into focus once Triston Casas, the current first baseman for the Red Sox, suffered a season-ending injury in May. The Red Sox then approached Devers again about relocating positions. His refusal led to speculation about his future with the team.

Since joining the Giants, Devers has expressed readiness to play any position, including first base, though Giants manager Bob Melvin confirmed that this weekend’s series won’t see him in that role just yet. “Yeah that’s not gonna happen this weekend, we haven’t gotten there,” Melvin stated in a recent radio appearance.

Despite these discussions, Devers has performed well, hitting .272 with 15 home runs during his last season with the Red Sox. His adaptability and skill will certainly be on display as the Giants face the Red Sox.