San Francisco Giants fans can breathe a sigh of relief with the latest update on Rafael Devers. The power-hitting infielder has been nursing a hamstring injury since spring training, but it seems like there's good news on the horizon. Manager Tony Vitello has indicated that Devers is close to being ready for action at first base if needed, though the team is opting for caution early in the 2026 season.
Devers, at 29, is still feeling some discomfort in the hamstring, so the Giants are playing it safe by keeping him in the designated hitter role for now. Vitello emphasized there's no rush to push Devers back into the field, especially with other options available like Casey Schmitt, who filled in at first during the recent game against the Yankees. Despite a 7-0 loss, Devers managed a hit in his four at-bats as DH, showing he's still a threat at the plate.
The Giants brought Devers over in a trade from the Boston Red Sox in 2025, and he made a solid impact in his 90 games with the team, posting a .236 average and a .347 on-base percentage, along with 20 home runs and 51 RBIs. The expectation is for Devers to rebound and be a key offensive force this season.
Looking ahead, the Giants have a promising first base prospect in Bryce Eldridge, who could make his way to the majors depending on his performance at Triple-A Sacramento. For now, though, the focus is on getting Devers fully healthy and back to his best, ensuring the Giants have a potent lineup as the season progresses.