The Red Sox are facing the reality of being without Trevor Story for an extended period of time. The shortstop dislocated his shoulder over the weekend in Anaheim and will be seeking a second opinion on Friday in Los Angeles. Manager Alex Cora has expressed concern about Story’s “bone structure” and surgery is a potential option. The team is awaiting more information over the weekend.
The news of Story’s potential absence for the season is a significant blow to the Red Sox, but they are adjusting their plans to make the best of the situation. In light of Story’s injury, they have had to make changes to their infield plans. It was revealed that they will be using platoons at both second base and shortstop. Against right-handed pitchers, David Hamilton and Enmanuel Valdez will pair up, while against lefties, Romy Gonzalez and Pablo Reyes will be the double-play combo. Vaughn Grissom, who is coming off an injury, is expected to return soon and may see time at shortstop as well.
Despite these new plans for the infield, the focus remains on Story’s condition. After missing most of last season following elbow surgery, Story was expected to be a key player for the Red Sox. The team was relying on his defensive skills and power hitting in the lineup. A second opinion with Dr. Neal ElAttrache is expected to provide more clarity, but the outlook is uncertain.
In order to make up for Story’s absence, the Red Sox may have to rely more on other players in their lineup, such as Rafael Devers or Xander Bogaards at second base or third base respectively. They may also have to bring up some prospects from their minor league system to fill out their roster if needed.
Overall, it’s clear that without Trevor Story for an extended period of time, the Red Sox will have
