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Devers Apologizes After Heated Exchange With Vitello in Giants Loss

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San Francisco lost to Miami 4‑3 on Sunday, a game that left Giants first baseman Rafael Devers in the spotlight. After a leadoff walk, Devers waved off rookie Jonah Cox, then gestured angrily at the dugout when the substitution was confirmed. He covered his face with his helmet and shouted into it, sparking a tense exchange.

Vitello called the incident a “nonissue,” and Devers apologized on the flight back, saying the confusion came from a mistaken belief that a hamstring problem had forced his exit. The loss completed Miami’s three‑game sweep and dropped the Giants to 15 games under .500, the second‑worst mark in the National League.

Manager Tony Vitello defended Devers, noting the player’s frustration stems from a rough season and that the media often magnifies moments. Giants vice‑president Buster Posey said the team is “prone to have missteps,” hinting that Devers’ future could hinge on a trade as the deadline approaches. The incident underscores the Giants’ need for cohesion.

Devers, acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Red Sox a year ago, has struggled in San Francisco, batting .238 with 97 strikeouts in 327 plate appearances by Tuesday. Vitello’s calm response signals the manager’s willingness to keep Devers on the roster, but the Giants’ 15‑game deficit keeps pressure high as they seek to climb the standings.