Rafael Devers Makes History as First Player Since 2008 to Play 163 Regular-Season Games
BOSTON — When Rafael Devers jogged onto the field for the Red Sox’s regular-season finale Monday night, the cheers at Fenway Park carried more than the usual appreciation. With that first step across the chalk, Devers became the first Major League player since Justin Morneau in 2008 to appear in 163 regular-season games—a rare feat of endurance in an era defined by careful rest and load management.
“It’s something I’m really proud of,” Devers said afterward through a smile, his jersey damp with champagne from a clubhouse celebration. “I love this game, and I love being out there with my teammates every single day.”
A Season of Relentless Commitment
Devers’ journey to 163 began back in April, when he set a personal goal to play every game. Along the way, he fought through nagging soreness, a bruised thumb, and countless late nights of travel. While many modern stars accept planned days off, Devers insisted on being in the lineup, often lobbying manager Alex Cora when the schedule suggested a break.
“Every morning he’d come in and say, ‘I’m good, skip,’” Cora said. “You never have to wonder about Raffy’s dedication. He just wants to compete.”
The Red Sox third baseman not only played, he excelled. Devers posted a .289 batting average with 36 home runs and 112 RBIs, anchoring a Boston lineup that battled deep into the playoff chase. His consistency became a rallying point for teammates and fans alike.
Echoes of Baseball History
Playing 163 games in a 162-game season typically requires a tiebreaker or makeup scenario, and Boston’s weather-related postponements earlier in the year set the stage for the extra contest. But the achievement goes beyond scheduling quirks.
In modern baseball, where sports science emphasizes recovery and front offices guard against injury, such durability is nearly unheard of. Before Morneau’s 2008 campaign with the Minnesota Twins, the last player to hit 163 games was Juan Pierre in 2006.
“Being available is a skill,” said ESPN analyst Eduardo Pérez. “It’s a reminder of what everyday players once meant to this sport.”
Inspiration for Teammates and Fans
Inside the clubhouse, Devers’ example did not go unnoticed. Veteran infielder Trevor Story called him “the heartbeat of this team.” Rookie outfielder Wilyer Abreu said Devers’ presence every day taught younger players what leadership truly looks like.
Boston fans embraced the milestone as a badge of grit and devotion. “Raffy shows up for us night after night,” said season-ticket holder Clara Jennings. “That’s old-school baseball, and we love him for it.”
Looking Ahead
Devers, 27, remains under a long-term contract that cements him as the face of the franchise. As the Red Sox turn their focus toward the postseason and beyond, his ironman season will stand as a symbol of both physical stamina and unwavering passion.
“I just try to help my team win,” Devers said. “That’s all I ever want to do.”
In an age when rest days are routine and stars often sit to preserve energy, Rafael Devers delivered a reminder of baseball’s enduring spirit: sometimes the greatest ability is simply to play, every single day.
Leave a Reply