
A cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox lineup, his thunderous bat and infectious energy made him a fan favorite and a World Series champion.
Rafael Devers launched home runs in the American League Division Series during his 2017 debut, announcing his arrival on baseball's biggest stage. Signed by the Boston Red Sox at sixteen from the Dominican Republic, he rocketed through the minors with prodigious power. Devers became the emotional and offensive centerpiece of the Red Sox, combining rare ability to hit for average and power with a jovial, gritty demeanor. His defensive work at third base evolved through dedicated effort. Born in 1996, he won a World Series ring with Boston before his long-term future saw a move to the San Francisco Giants.
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Rafael was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
The world at every milestone
Dolly the sheep cloned
September 11 attacks transform the world
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
His childhood nickname in the Dominican Republic was 'Carita,' which means 'Little Face.'
He hit a home run in his first career postseason at-bat in the 2017 ALDS.
He signed with the Red Sox for a $1.5 million bonus as an international free agent in 2013.
“I just try to go out there and have fun and help my team win.”