Rafael Devers’ extension with the Boston Red Sox became a necessity for the team after the departures of key players like Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, and J.D. Martinez.

With only Devers left as the face of the franchise, owner John Henry and chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom had no choice but to secure the 26-year-old slugger’s future in Boston. The Red Sox, known for their willingness to spend, agreed to an 11-year, $331 million contract with Devers on Wednesday.

When Boston traded Betts, they were forced into a corner as Betts had made it clear he planned to explore free agency. The return on the trade, including Alex Verdugo, hasn’t worked out as planned.

Jeter Downs, a key prospect in the deal, was claimed off waivers by the Nationals. With Bogaerts, the signing of Trevor Story hinted that Bogaerts’ time in Boston was ending, and the need for pitching contributed to his departure.

While Devers’ extension makes sense considering his youth, it’s valid to question whether he’s worthy of joining the $300 million club. Devers has never finished in the top 10 of MVP voting and has only had one top-10 finish in WAR among AL position players.

Though he has been consistently productive, his overall metrics don’t quite match those of the elite players in his pay bracket. However, Devers remains a dynamic hitter, particularly at Fenway Park, and could continue to improve.

Entering his age-26 season, Devers was showing signs of growth before a hamstring injury cut his 2022 season short. Despite the injury, his early performance in 2022 was comparable to some of the league’s top hitters.

His durability will be a key factor in his long-term success, though his defense at third base remains a concern. Regardless, his future in Boston is promising, and this extension solidifies his legacy as one of the Red Sox’s best young players.