Boston, MA – The Boston Red Sox have defied expectations, transforming into one of Major League Baseball's most formidable teams in July, despite the mid-June trade of star slugger Rafael Devers. The team has embarked on a remarkable 10-game winning streak and compiled a 16-9 record since Devers' departure, positioning themselves firmly in the American League East race. This surprising turnaround comes after initial concerns that trading Devers signaled a concession for the 2025 season.
The significant transaction occurred on June 15, 2025, when the Red Sox sent three-time All-Star Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. The move was reportedly driven by a "fractured relationship" between Devers and the Red Sox organization, stemming from his reluctance to change positions. Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow stated at the time that the trade was "in no way signifying a waving of the white flag on 2025," emphasizing the financial flexibility it would create.
Initially, the trade was met with skepticism from fans and analysts, who viewed it as a step backward for a team that had struggled to find consistent success. However, the Red Sox's performance post-trade has dramatically shifted that narrative. As of mid-July, the team boasts the third-best record in MLB since June 15, with a notable +39 run differential.
The team's surge has been attributed by manager Alex Cora to improved pitching. "We pitch," Cora commented, highlighting a key factor in their recent success. This strong performance has allowed Boston to close within a game of the New York Yankees and remain within striking distance of the first-place Toronto Blue Jays in the highly competitive AL East.
The Red Sox's unexpected ascent has turned a season that many believed was lost into a compelling playoff push. Their ability to thrive after moving a franchise cornerstone has become a major storyline in the 2025 MLB season, demonstrating a resilient and cohesive team dynamic. The Wall Street Journal captured this sentiment, noting, "The Red Sox looked to be waving a white flag on the 2025 season when they dumped star slugger Rafael Devers. Instead, they’ve become MLB’s most unlikely juggernaut."