Why Giants shut Rafael Devers down amid historic tear at plate

Key Points:

• Rafael Devers will undergo surgery for a core muscle injury, ending his 2026 season despite hitting 37 home runs and driving in 98 runs while playing through the injury.
• The Giants had planned the surgery in advance, delaying it to accommodate Devers' performance and the schedule of specialist Dr. William Meyers, who recently operated on teammate Matt Chapman.
• Both Devers and Chapman, the Giants' highest-paid players, played through core injuries throughout the season, with Chapman undergoing surgery in August after initially playing through his injury.
• Devers took on a heavy workload late in the season due to injuries and trades affecting other veterans, finishing with some of the best offensive stats in Oracle Park history.
• The Giants aimed to start Devers' rehab before the anticipated December lockout, ensuring he can work with the team's medical staff and be ready for the 2027 season, where he is expected to remain a top hitter in the National League.