The Boston Red Sox actively sought a shortstop before the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline. Trevor Story, one of the team’s top-paid players and a shortstop himself, witnessed their dedicated search. He expressed relief when the team did not acquire another shortstop, as it meant he still had a chance to reclaim the position.
“There was speculation, for sure. I saw it,” Story mentioned on Wednesday, according to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo. “But that’s the business side of the game. I can’t control it, especially when I’m not playing. It unfolded how it did. Obviously, I’m happy about that and excited to get back in there, be part of this, and contribute all I can to this incredible turnaround.”
The Red Sox showed interest in Miami Marlins’ Otto Lopez, Washington Nationals’ CJ Abrams, and Cincinnati Reds’ Elly De La Cruz. Despite discussions, none materialized. Instead, the team focused on acquiring Adley Rutschman, a former Baltimore Orioles catcher.
This focus left the shortstop position still needing attention, particularly with Story absent due to sports hernia surgery. The team has relied on Andruw Monasterio, Nick Sogard, and Tsung Che-Cheng in the interim.
When Story returns, he is expected to become the primary choice for shortstop. His leadership, defensive skills, and offensive potential support his case. He indicated that his return might be near, with a rehab assignment approaching.
“We’re re-assessing at the end of the week, how everything went, then what it looks like going forward,” Story stated. “I’m getting to a point where we’re touching close to top speed. Now, it’s about how my body responds.”
The Red Sox are eager for his return. However, Story needs to perform at the level he exhibited in 2025 to secure his spot. It will be a challenge he has to meet head-on.