Trevor Story, the Boston Red Sox shortstop, began the season with impressive power and speed, hitting five home runs and stealing four bases during April. However, since May 6, Story’s production has sharply declined, as he has managed only nine hits in 68 at-bats, resulting in a .132 batting average. Red Sox manager Alex Cora has suggested that the team may need to give Story some time off to help him regain his timing and confidence amid this downturn.
On May 25, Cora benched Story in an effort to provide him with a break and allow him to reset at the plate. Story has notably struggled with fastballs, hitting a mere .182 and posting a .192 slugging percentage against those pitches.
Alex Cora on Red Sox SS Trevor Story: ‘Disconnect him today. Maybe tomorrow’He’s 18-for-99 (.182) with a .192 slugging percentage, 17 singles and one double against fastballs.https://t.co/YEvGdlYTNA
— Christopher Smith (@SmittyOnMLB)
Cora’s approach reflects a belief that a short pause can help Story relax and clear his mind, potentially leading to improved results. The manager praised Story’s dedication and emphasized that his difficulties are not due to a lack of effort or preparation.
Following the day off, Story returned to the lineup on May 26 and recorded one hit in three at-bats, along with a run scored and a walk. This modest rebound could signal the beginning of an end to his slump, but questions about his consistency remain.
Potential Changes to Story’s Playing Role Amid Top Prospect’s Arrival
If Trevor Story’s performance does not improve soon, his playing time may become limited. The Red Sox recently promoted Marcelo Mayer, a highly regarded prospect and natural shortstop, who is currently filling in at third base while Alex Bregman recovers from injury. Mayer’s presence introduces pressure on Story, especially once Bregman returns to third base.
Mayer, ranked as the No. 8 prospect in all of baseball, is seen as Boston’s shortstop of the future. Should Mayer perform effectively, he could start claiming at-bats from Story, creating competition for the starting job.
Despite these dynamics, the Red Sox are expected to exercise patience with Story, considering his sizeable contract—a six-year, $140 million agreement signed in 2022 that still has two full seasons remaining. Given his current injury history and slump, moving the contract would be challenging, making it likely that the team will continue to give Story opportunities to rebound.
The coming weeks are critical for Story’s future with Boston, as his ability to recover from this slump will likely determine whether he retains his position as the team’s starting shortstop amid rising prospects and mounting expectations.