Will Flemming Sparks Heated Debate: “I Think Bregman Should Be the DH and Raffy Should Go Back to 3rd”
Boston Red Sox broadcaster Will Flemming has ignited a fierce controversy among fans and analysts by suggesting a reversal of the team’s current lineup strategy: “I think Bregman should be the DH and Raffy should go back to 3rd.” This statement challenges the widely accepted decision by manager Alex Cora to have Alex Bregman man third base while Rafael Devers serves as the designated hitter (DH) for the 2025 season.
The Current Setup and Flemming’s Bold Opinion
Since the offseason, the Red Sox have positioned Bregman, the reigning Gold Glove winner at third base, as the everyday third baseman, while Devers, a powerful hitter but historically a defensive liability at third, has moved to DH. Manager Alex Cora emphasized this move as a “winning business” decision, citing Bregman’s superior defense and Devers’ struggles with errors at third base.
However, Flemming’s recent comment flips this narrative, suggesting that Devers should return to third base and Bregman take on the DH role. This opinion has sparked immediate backlash and debate, as it questions the defensive logic behind the current arrangement and challenges the team’s strategy.
Why Flemming’s View Is Controversial
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Defensive Metrics: Devers has led the American League in errors at third base multiple times, while Bregman’s defense earned him a Gold Glove last season. Statistically, Bregman is the superior defender, making Flemming’s suggestion seem counterintuitive to many experts.
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Team Dynamics: Devers initially resisted moving off third base but later accepted the DH role for the team’s benefit. Flemming’s stance reopens old wounds and questions Devers’ commitment to the current setup.
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Fan Reactions: Many fans have expressed frustration, arguing that Flemming’s opinion undermines the team’s efforts to improve defense and chemistry. Others support the idea, believing Devers’ experience at third base and leadership outweigh defensive shortcomings.
Social Media Erupts
The debate has exploded on platforms like Twitter and Reddit:
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“Flemming’s take is wild. Bregman at DH? That’s a defensive downgrade!”
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“Raffy at third is a defensive nightmare. Stick with Bregman!”
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“Maybe Flemming sees something we don’t. Could be worth trying.”
What’s Next for the Red Sox?
While manager Alex Cora has firmly backed the current lineup, Flemming’s comments add fuel to ongoing discussions about how to maximize the Red Sox’s offensive and defensive potential. With the season underway, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if any adjustments are made or if Flemming’s controversial opinion influences future decisions.
Conclusion: A Debate That Divides Red Sox Nation
Will Flemming’s call to switch Bregman to DH and move Devers back to third base has stirred passionate debate, highlighting the tension between defensive metrics and player roles. As the Red Sox chase success in 2025, this controversy underscores the challenges of balancing talent, defense, and team chemistry.
