Rafael Devers, the star infielder, is on the verge of achieving a rare and unusual feat in Major League Baseball. Thanks to a mid-season trade from the Boston Red Sox to the San Francisco Giants, Devers has the opportunity to play more games than there are in a regular MLB season. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding Devers’ potential record, the history of players achieving this milestone, and what it means for both Devers and his new team.
With the regular season winding down, Devers leads MLB in games played. The trade to the Giants has positioned him to potentially play 163 games in what is typically a 162-game season. This unique situation raises questions about the impact of mid-season trades and the dedication of players who prioritize being on the field every day.
Here, we will explore Devers’ journey, the views of his manager, Bob Melvin, and the historical context of players who have achieved this unusual accomplishment. Understanding the nuances of this story provides insight into the commitment of players and the strategic decisions made by MLB teams.
Devers’ Pursuit of the Iron Man Title
Rafael Devers currently leads Major League Baseball with 157 games played as the season approaches its final week. What makes this statistic particularly interesting is that every other player in the league has played a maximum of 156 games due to the standard length of the MLB season. Devers’ unique situation stems from his trade from the Boston Red Sox to the San Francisco Giants, where he has continued to play every game without missing a single matchup.
This remarkable streak puts Devers in a position to potentially play 163 games in a 162-game season, an achievement that has occurred only a handful of times in baseball history. Such a feat highlights Devers’ commitment to the game and his durability as a player. It also speaks to the circumstances that can arise from mid-season trades and their impact on individual player statistics.
The possibility of playing more games than the official season length is a testament to Devers’ resilience and his consistent presence on the field. It is a rare opportunity that underscores the unpredictable nature of baseball and the unique scenarios that can unfold during a season.
A Rare Feat: Joining the 163-Game Club
Rafael Devers is on the cusp of joining a select group of MLB players who have played 163 games in a single season. Justin Morneau was the last player to achieve this milestone in 2008 when the Minnesota Twins played an extra tiebreaker game to determine the American League Central champion. Before Morneau, Todd Zeile also reached this mark in 1996, playing for two different teams due to a midseason trade.
These instances are rare and often involve unique circumstances such as tiebreaker games or mid-season trades that allow a player to accumulate games played across different teams. The fact that Devers has the chance to replicate this achievement highlights the unusual confluence of events that have aligned during his 2025 season. His potential entry into this exclusive club underscores the historical significance of his current streak.
The rarity of this accomplishment adds to the intrigue surrounding Devers’ season. It is a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball and the various factors that can influence a player’s statistics and legacy. As Devers approaches the end of the season, all eyes will be on whether he can cement his place in MLB history alongside Morneau and Zeile.
Bob Melvin’s Take: Making History Happen
Giants manager Bob Melvin has expressed his awareness and support for Rafael Devers’ pursuit of playing 163 games in a 162-game season. Learning about this possibility, Melvin indicated a willingness to keep Devers in the lineup to make it happen. “We might have to try to make that happen,” Melvin said, acknowledging Devers’ love for the game and his resilience.
Melvin also noted the role of the designated hitter (DH) position in helping Devers maintain his presence in the lineup, allowing him to play every game without the physical strain of playing in the field. This strategic use of Devers as a DH has been crucial in his ability to accumulate games played and approach this rare milestone. Melvin’s support underscores the team’s awareness of the historical significance of Devers’ potential achievement.
The manager’s perspective highlights the human element of baseball, where individual accomplishments and milestones are recognized and supported within the context of team goals. Melvin’s comments reflect a balance between strategic decision-making and a genuine appreciation for a player’s dedication and love for the game.
Devers’ Performance in 2025
Rafael Devers’ 2025 season has been marked by both consistency and adaptation. Before being traded to the San Francisco Giants, Devers played 73 games for the Boston Red Sox, primarily as a designated hitter. Despite dealing with a hand injury earlier in the season, Devers has maintained a high level of performance, contributing significantly to both teams.
While his slugging percentage (.468) is his lowest since 2018, Devers has still managed to hit 32 home runs and drive in 105 RBIs, showcasing his continued value as an everyday player. His ability to produce runs and maintain a presence in the lineup has been crucial for both the Red Sox and the Giants. Notably, Devers had an impressive .989 OPS in August, indicating a strong start to his Giants tenure.
As he approaches his 703rd plate appearance, Devers is set to reach a new career high, underscoring his durability and consistent performance over the years. His statistics reflect a player who has adapted to different roles and challenges, maintaining a high level of contribution throughout the season.
The Giants’ Playoff Hopes and Devers’ Role
The San Francisco Giants are currently in a tight race for a National League playoff spot, trailing the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets by three games. In this context, every game and every player’s performance carries significant weight. Rafael Devers’ presence in the lineup and his potential to achieve a rare milestone add an extra layer of intrigue to the Giants’ playoff push.
With the recent call-up of first base prospect Bryce Eldridge, there is added competition for playing time. However, Devers looks poised to play the final six games of the season, solidifying his role in the team’s efforts to secure a playoff berth. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be crucial as the Giants navigate the final stretch of the season.
The combination of Devers’ individual pursuit of a rare feat and the Giants’ team goals creates a compelling narrative. His performance in these final games will not only determine whether he achieves his personal milestone but also play a significant role in the Giants’ quest for a playoff spot.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Milestones and Team Goals
Rafael Devers’ 2025 season is shaping up to be one of unique achievements and significant contributions. His potential to play 163 games in a 162-game season is a testament to his durability, commitment, and the unusual circumstances that have aligned due to his mid-season trade from the Red Sox to the Giants.
As Devers approaches the end of the season, his pursuit of this rare feat coincides with the Giants’ push for a playoff spot. This combination of individual milestones and team goals creates a compelling narrative, highlighting the human element of baseball and the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Ultimately, Devers’ season serves as a reminder of the dedication required to excel in baseball and the various factors that can influence a player’s legacy. Whether he achieves the 163-game milestone or contributes to the Giants’ playoff success, his 2025 season will be remembered as a testament to his resilience and love for the game.
Leave a Reply