Giants' Rafael Devers Debuts Error-Free at First Base in 9-0 Win over Braves

Rafael Devers made his first career start at first base for the San Francisco Giants, a position he refused to play for the Boston Red Sox, his previous team. In the Giants' 9-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves, Devers was error-free defensively and contributed offensively with two hits and an RBI, helping snap the Giants' six-game losing streak. Devers expressed a preference for playing defense over being a designated hitter, stating it keeps him active and mentally engaged. The Giants' manager Bob Melvin's decision to move Devers to first base paid immediate dividends, as the team dominated the game with strong pitching and timely hitting. Devers was traded from Boston after management tensions and declined to play first base for the Red Sox despite team injuries, but felt respected enough by the Giants to embrace the new role. This change appears to have positively impacted Devers' performance, with his offensive output improving when playing in the field compared to DH duties.