One of the biggest stories for the SF Giants going into the 2026 season is with regards to the first base position. The majority of fans would love to see Bryce Eldridge play first base and be part of the fold. However, there is good reason to believe that Rafael Devers will hold down the fort at the corner infield position. 

Rafael Devers should see bulk of time at first base for SF Giants

This isn’t an idea that is just floating about in the brainwaves. Giants GM Zack Minasian went on MLB Network radio and talked about the Giants regarding the first base position. Minasian made it clear he believes that Devers is the better defender at first base. When Devers came over from Boston, he spent 249 innings at first base and had 2 defensive runs saved with -1 outs above average. That’s serviceable first base defense and it’s poetic when you think about how he got there. 

The entire situation with the Red Sox was chaotic at best and it all stems from a lack of communication. The organization wanted to improve their third base defense and once Alex Bregman walked into the door it changed entirely. Ultimately, he was told to put the glove away and be just a hitter. The team ended up needing him at first base, which he declined to play. Now, he’s pegged to be the starting first baseman for the Giants. It’s all come full circle for Devers. With that being said, it boils down to putting the best team on the field and players in position to succeed. 

If Devers is the better defender, it makes sense to put him in that position. The Giants infield in general is stellar, so having reliable and serviceable defense at first base is huge. Also, money is a factor. What I mean by that is they took on the entirety of that deal and if they can make him an everyday player in the field, that’s what should be done. He very well could also be a designated hitter, but given the upside at first base it seems like that ios where he should be. Baseball players are creatures of habit and routine is key. The smart move is to let Devers develop a routine and get into rhythm his first full season in black and orange. 

As for Eldridge, he shouldn’t be a platoon player. He is one of the best power hitting prospects and should be an everyday player. If Devers truly is to take the mantle at first base, it certainly questions his future with the club. Trading him would be malpractice, but they definitely need to find a way to get him into the lineup with DH being the most obvious solution.Â