With the Boston Red Sox’s regular season set to begin in less than two months, expectations are high. The lineup will be the same as last season and possibly include a healthy Dustin Pedroia. They will be led by JD Martinez and last year’s MVP, Mookie Betts. Rafael Devers, however, could be a wildcard. The former top prospect has shown flashes of his potential but finished last year with a .240 batting average. Manager Alex Cora has already challenged Devers to be more like New York Yankees’ third baseman Miguel Andujar. Devers has the talent to meet the challenge and could make the Red Sox’s lineup even more dangerous.

In Devers’ first full season, he did not have a horrible year but failed to meet expectations. In 121 games he hit 20 home runs and drove in 60 runs. The former top prospect was streaky at times and dealt with a hamstring strain that limited him in August. He struggled mightily defensively, leading all of baseball in errors. This has led to questions about whether or not he can stay at third in the long-term.

Despite his down season, Devers’ future remains bright. On Opening Day, the Sox’s third baseman will be only 22 years old. His struggles last season can be tied to his youth and that he may have been rushed to the big leagues. In the playoffs, he finally seemed to find his game as the Red Sox made their championship run. It was a glimpse of the game-changing talent the Red Sox expect him to be on the biggest stage. In Spring Training, Devers has already made it clear he will not fall short of the lofty expectations placed on him.

He also has added pressure due to prospects rising in the system. Bobby Dalbec and Michael Davis have impressive power and have gotten off to hot starts in camp. They are also both close to being major league ready. The young prospects have pushed Devers to be at his best knowing a critical season is ahead. The Sox’s third baseman has responded by showing up to camp in great shape and changing his workout routine. The change will hopefully help Devers avoid the disabled list and be a force at the plate.

Like the rest of his teammates, Devers is getting ready to defend the Red Sox’s title. It will not be easy as the Yankees and Tamp Bay Rays have improved. The Houston Astros and Cleveland Indians also have deep and talented rosters. In order for the Red Sox to hoist a World Series trophy again, Devers will have to be at his best. If he can be consistent offensively, then the Red Sox will have another impactful bat in the lineup. On a team loaded with stars, Devers has the chance to be a special player in 2019.