The Boston Red Sox are heading into a pivotal stretch of the 2025 season, not with a playoff run in sight, but with a clear message from the front office: Change is coming. With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, sources close to the team confirm that at least five players are likely to be moved or cut from the active roster in July. The moves are part of a broader shift toward rebuilding and reshaping the team’s core for the years ahead.
What’s surprising isn’t that names like Kenley Jansen, Reese McGuire, Rob Refsnyder, or Nick Pivetta are on the chopping block — those were expected. But what sent shockwaves through Red Sox Nation was the inclusion of Rafael Devers as the No. 3 name most likely to be involved in trade talks.
Yes, that Rafael Devers — the All-Star third baseman, the offensive heart of the team, and the face of the franchise.
⚾ Who’s on the list?
According to multiple reports and league insiders, here are the five players most likely to be traded or cut:
Kenley Jansen (Closer) – Veteran reliever, high value for playoff contenders, expiring contract. A return to the Dodgers is rumored.
Reese McGuire (Catcher) – With Kyle Teel waiting in the wings, McGuire becomes expendable. Teams looking for catching depth are already circling.
Rafael Devers (3B) – The bombshell of the list. While still under a massive contract, Devers’ production and market value make him a rare trade chip. The front office is reportedly listening to offers.
Rob Refsnyder (Utility OF) – A reliable bench piece with low cost, perfect for teams seeking veteran depth during the postseason push.
Nick Pivetta (Starting Pitcher) – Valuable to contenders needing rotation insurance. His contract and age make him an easy flip for future assets.
The Devers Dilemma: Business vs. Loyalty
The idea of cutting ties with Rafael Devers has split the Red Sox fanbase in two. On one hand, it’s easy to see why his name is being floated: he’s one of the league’s most consistent offensive players, he’s healthy, and his value has rarely been higher.
But on the other hand, Devers isn’t just another slugger. He’s a symbol of continuity in a franchise that has seen Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, and J.D. Martinez all walk away in recent years. For many fans, trading Devers would be a betrayal, a sign that the team isn’t committed to building around its stars, but rather content with endless rebuilds.
Social media reaction was swift and emotional:
“If the Red Sox trade Devers, I’m done. That’s it. I’ve supported this team through everything, but this would be a total disaster.” – @SoxTillIDie (Twitter)
“Devers is Boston. You don’t trade a player like him unless you’ve completely given up.” – RedSoxFan89 (Reddit)
The Front Office Strategy
Red Sox GM Craig Breslow and President Sam Kennedy have remained mostly silent on the rumors, but league insiders believe the team is actively gauging the market. The goal? Acquire young, controllable talent to bolster a farm system that’s slowly improving but still lacks top-tier depth.
One AL executive commented:
“If they move Devers, it’ll be for a king’s ransom. It won’t be a salary dump. They want multiple MLB-ready players in return.”
What’s Next?
With the trade deadline set for July 30, all eyes will be on Boston’s front office. If the team goes through with a blockbuster Devers deal, it will mark the most dramatic midseason shift since the Mookie Betts trade in 2020.
While fans brace for impact, the message is clear: no one is untouchable, not even No. 11 at third base.
The next few weeks could define not only the Red Sox’s future — but how this era of leadership will be remembered.
