Rafael Devers scratched from Red Sox lineup, utility infielder starts at third base

The day after Rafael Devers kicked off the Boston Red Sox' season with its first home run, he's been scratched from the lineup.

Devers will be sidelined with shoulder soreness and Bobby Dalbec will play third base in his stead. The severity of his injury is unknown and it is yet uncertain if the Red Sox will keep him out of commission for more than one game.

Devers had a productive spring and he carried his momentum into Boston's Opening Day contest against the Mariners. He hit a two-run homer and a double in the first game under his 10-year contract extension which he signed last winter. In his 15 spring training games, Devers slashed .380/.436./720 and belted five home runs.

Dalbec will be given his first chance to prove himself at the big-league level in just the second game of the season. Alex Cora stated his confidence early in spring training that Dalbec would be able to make the team, however his first start is coming sooner than many hoped.

Red Sox sideline Rafael Devers with shoulder soreness, Bobby Dalbec gets the start

The infielder fell back into his old ways in spring training and he racked up strikeouts. In 23 games, Dalbec batted .222/.311/.407 with three home runs, a double, nine RBI and 21 strikeouts.

Despite his not-so-impressive spring stats, Dalbec may be able to get more playing time in the big leagues this season due to increased defensive versatility. The natural first baseman has been taking reps in the outfield and working on his fielding skills to stick around on Boston's roster.

Hopefully, Devers' shoulder issue doesn't turn into something more long-term. Dalbec got a lot of playing time this spring so he may be ready to take on the major leagues once again.

More Red Sox reads: