Are the San Francisco Giants World Series Contenders After Landing Rafael Devers?

By Oliver Wiener June 20, 2025 07:03

The San Francisco Giants’ blockbuster acquisition of Rafael Devers on June 15, 2025, instantly thrust the franchise into the World Series conversation. Trading for one of baseball’s premier hitters at the cost of pitchers Kyle Harrison, Jordan Hicks, and two prospects the Giants demonstrated a clear intent to contend immediately. But does landing Devers truly make San Francisco a legitimate championship threat this season?

The Trade and Its Context

The Giants secured Devers from the Boston Red Sox in a deal that sent Harrison, Hicks, outfielder James Tibbs III, and pitcher Jose Bello to Boston. Notably, San Francisco assumed Devers’ massive contract, which carries $255 million remaining on a 10-year, $313.5 million extension through 2033. Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey was instrumental in the trade, working closely with Boston’s Craig Breslow and gaining early buy-in from ownership to invest heavily in bolstering the offense.

Devers, a three-time All-Star, brings a potent bat to a Giants lineup that struggled with power this season. His 162-game averages of .279/.349/.510, with 33 home runs and 107 RBIs, perfectly fill a glaring need for San Francisco’s offense. The Giants had endured a prolonged offensive slump, including a stretch of 16 games scoring fewer than five runs, which prompted chairman Greg Johnson and Posey to push for a marquee bat.

Position Flexibility and Role

One key storyline since the trade has been Devers’ defensive role. Previously an almost exclusive third baseman with Boston, Devers has been considered a below-average defender at the hot corner. The Giants plan to utilize him primarily as a designated hitter and first baseman, with Devers already beginning work at first base. “They’re the men in charge,” Devers said. “I’m here to play wherever they want me to play”. This positional flexibility allows the Giants to maximize his offensive contributions while minimizing defensive liabilities.

Impact on Giants’ World Series Chances

The addition of Devers immediately upgrades the Giants’ lineup, giving them a middle-of-the-order presence capable of driving in runs and changing games with power. Giants manager Bob Melvin has already slotted Devers third in the batting order, signaling confidence in his ability to produce right away.

However, this trade comes at a cost. The Giants parted with Kyle Harrison, one of their top young pitchers, and Jordan Hicks, a veteran arm. Harrison, 23, had a 4.56 ERA this season and will join Boston’s Triple-A affiliate, while Hicks has struggled with a 6.47 ERA. The loss of pitching depth could pressure San Francisco’s rotation and bullpen, areas that will need to hold up for a deep postseason run.

Quotes and Perspectives

Buster Posey highlighted the strategic nature of the deal: “I give Buster a lot of credit. He seemed very determined... Our baseball operations group wanted to see it through. We're just thrilled this was the outcome”. Giants chairman Greg Johnson’s early support was crucial, especially given the financial commitment involved.

From Devers’ perspective, the trade represents a fresh start. “I’m moving on from the situation in Boston and am excited to be a San Francisco Giant,” he said at his introductory press conference.

The San Francisco Giants’ acquisition of Rafael Devers is a bold move that elevates their World Series aspirations. His elite offensive production addresses a critical weakness and offers a legitimate middle-of-the-order threat. While the loss of pitching prospects tempers enthusiasm, the Giants’ willingness to invest heavily signals a win-now mentality.

If the pitching staff can hold its own and Devers continues to produce at his usual All-Star level, the Giants could very well be serious contenders come October. This trade embodies a classic baseball gamble: sacrificing youth and depth for proven star power in pursuit of a championship. For now, the Giants have staked their claim as a team to watch in the 2025 postseason.