Devers willing to DH: 'I'm just ready to play'

Rafael Devers is open to being the Boston Red Sox designated hitter on Opening Day after all.

The infielder, who has been Boston's starting third baseman since debuting in 2017, said he talked with manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow about where he will play this season.

"We spoke already, and I'm good to do whatever they want me to do," Devers said through an interpreter Thursday, according to NESN.

"I'm here to help. I've already spoken with them about that and they know where I stand, but I'm just ready to play."

Devers' role came into question after the Red Sox signed another third baseman, Alex Bregman, in free agency. Following the addition, Devers told the Red Sox he wasn't interested in playing DH.

Devers is expected to appear in his first spring game Saturday after recovering from shoulder issues. He wasn't willing to disclose what he discussed with Cora and Breslow, but he admitted he was upset he'd been painted in a bad light for wanting to play third.

"It's been kind of sad that I've been put out there as someone who's bad for the organization. ... I've matured a lot during this," Devers continued. "I'm ready to move forward."

He added, "At the end of the day, it's not my decision. I don't call the shots around here."

The three-time All-Star is one of Boston's best bats, but he's posted minus-62 defensive runs saved and made 141 errors at the hot corner since 2017.

Meanwhile, Bregman is fresh off winning his first Gold Glove and amassed 17 more defensive runs saved than Devers did at third base last season.

Devers is under contract until 2033, while Bregman can opt out of his three-year deal following both the 2025 and 2026 campaigns.