The Boston Red Sox face a growing challenge with their current shortstop, Trevor Story, as they look for a viable Trevor Story replacement Red Sox fans can rally behind. Despite Story’s long-term contract through 2028, his recent performance has fallen short of expectations, leading the team to consider promising prospects like Gavin Kilen from the University of Tennessee.
Trevor Story’s Struggles Lead to Replacement Discussions
Trevor Story signed a six-year, $140 million contract with the Red Sox amid hopes he would replicate the power he showed with the Colorado Rockies, where he frequently hit 30 or more home runs and maintained an OPS+ above 120. However, injuries and inconsistent play have hindered his progress. Currently, Story posts a .647 OPS with a 79 OPS+, tallying just 11 home runs in 294 at-bats, a respectable total but underwhelming compared to initial projections.
Gavin Kilen Emerges as a Rising Prospect
Given Story’s uneven output, baseball analysts like Just Baseball have identified Gavin Kilen as a strong candidate to take over the shortstop role. Kilen, a second baseman and shortstop, has developed steadily during his time at Tennessee, hitting 15 home runs in the most recent season, an encouraging power surge for a middle infielder. His combination of improving offense and defensive versatility positions him as a rare prospect likely to remain in the top fifteen rankings.
Kilen’s rise is noteworthy partly because it diverges from Boston’s usual preference for toolsy prospects from preparatory schools, as the team has often favored players like Xavier Neyens. Analysts note this shift in strategy could signal a new direction in the Red Sox’s player development philosophy.
Kilen’s College Performance Marks Increased Power and Consistency
Initially, Kilen played at the University of Louisville, where his power was limited, hitting nine home runs in his sophomore year with a .952 OPS. However, by 2025, he had significantly boosted his power numbers and overall offensive output, posting an impressive 1.112 OPS. This marked improvement helped raise his profile as a legitimate shortstop prospect who could contribute both offensively and defensively at the next level.
With Story’s current difficulties, the Red Sox’s interest in Kilen underscores their search for a dependable middle infielder capable of providing more consistent production, potentially revitalizing the team’s infield core.
What the Future Holds for Boston’s Middle Infield
The consideration of Kilen as a Trevor Story replacement Red Sox officials may pursue indicates a willingness to adapt their scouting and development strategies. Kilen’s steady power development and defensive promise could make him a key piece for Boston moving forward, especially if Story’s performance does not rebound. The team’s front office and fans will closely watch Kilen’s continued progress, as his arrival might reshape the club’s roster decisions in the near term.