Rafael Devers is set to remain the cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox for the foreseeable future with a massive 11-year, $331 million extension. At just 26 years old, the third baseman is now positioned as the franchise’s long-term leader, especially following the departure of some of its biggest stars in recent seasons.

This deal not only secures Devers’ role as the offensive powerhouse but also cements his place as the face of the Red Sox in the years ahead. The decision to lock up Devers instead of former Red Sox icons Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts has raised eyebrows. In 2020, Betts was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers after ownership mandated that the team reduce its payroll.

Although Betts went on to sign a lucrative extension with the Dodgers, the trade remains a point of contention among fans. Meanwhile, Bogaerts, who had hoped to finish his career in Boston, reached free agency after failed contract talks with the team.

Instead of staying, he signed a serious deal with the San Diego Padres. In both cases, Devers’ younger age and potential as a generational talent made him a more logical choice for the Red Sox to prioritize moving forward.

The urgency to secure Devers was clear after the team faced the loss of Bogaerts. Initial discussions with Devers were reportedly over $100 million apart, but after the frustration of losing Bogaerts, the Red Sox made a concerted effort to close the gap.

Had they not finalized the deal before the start of the season, Devers could have entered free agency the following year, leaving Boston in the same position it found itself after Betts’ trade — uncertain about the future and possibly forced to trade a star player instead of losing him for nothing.

This deal also reflects the Red Sox’s ongoing strategy to balance big contracts with smart, long-term investments in younger players. Chaim Bloom, the team’s chief baseball officer, has emphasized rebuilding the farm system and focusing on early extensions for emerging talents.

The Red Sox are looking to lock in key young players before they hit arbitration, similar to moves made by other teams like the Houston Astros and Chicago White Sox. This strategy ensures the team remains competitive while managing the financial risk of overcommitting to aging veterans.

Looking ahead, the Red Sox have some key needs to address, particularly at catcher. While the team has Reese McGuire and Connor Wong in the system, both players have limited big-league experience, prompting speculation that Boston may need to pursue a trade to upgrade the position.

Additionally, there may be further moves made to strengthen the pitching staff, though the recent signing of veteran Corey Kluber has helped alleviate some of those concerns.

As for the 2023 season, the Red Sox remain hopeful they can contend for a playoff spot. New signings like Japanese outfielder Masataka Yoshida and veteran Justin Turner are expected to contribute. The team will also need improved performances from players like Trevor Story, Enrique Hernandez, and first baseman Triston Casas.

On the pitching side, the Red Sox are counting on a healthy Chris Sale and strong seasons from Nick Pivetta, Garrett Whitlock, and others to anchor the rotation. With a competitive American League East, however, Boston will need a perfect storm of success both within the team and across the division to stay in the postseason race.