The Boston Red Sox have already traded away one key player in Rafael Devers. They could cut ties with an elite pitcher if they fall out of contention.

Some of the rationale for trading Rafael Devers is understandable. Most of it falls somewhere between lousy and loathsome.

All-Star third baseman Rafael Devers was traded to the Giants from the Red Sox Sunday night in a stunning deal that will see San Francisco take on on all the remaining money on Devers' 10-year, $313.5 million deal that started last season.

The Boston Red Sox fought their way back into the postseason race, but then traded away their best hitter. They could swing a trade to land his replacement.

Legendary Red Sox slugger David Ortiz said players' egos sometimes play a big role in trades like the one Rafael Devers was involved in.