Trevor Story Out for Awhile
It was reported this week that Boston Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story will be out to start the 2023 season due to a “bracing procedure” of his UCL elbow ligament in his right arm. This is a tough loss to the team because recently, longtime shortstop Xander Bogaerts left in free agency to the San Diego Padres. Boston was aware of Story potentially having to have surgery in the future prior to signing him before the 2022 season. Story, 30, signed a six-year $140 million dollar contract last year, and injuries have been an issue dating back to last season. This news puts a big question in the Red Sox lineup, seeing who will be the next man up at the position and also how will the infield and lineup look on Opening Day, just about three months away.
Tweet About Story Injury
Chaim Bloom says he 'always expected to add' to Red Sox middle infield this offseason, even before Trevor Story's injury. Team "actively discussing" whether that's through free agency or trade ? pic.twitter.com/1gUrS6KxDn
— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) January 10, 2023
Where Does Boston Go From Here After Story Injury
The internal options on the Red Sox roster would be Utility man Kiké Hernández that plays anywhere in the outfield and can play second base or shortstop if needed. Hernandez has shown his ability to contribute wherever manager Alex Cora needs to have him play. Other options would be Enmanuel Valdez up and coming infielder that was acquired in the Christian Vázquez deal with the Houston Astros last season. Valdez had okay numbers last season with the Worcester Red Sox. In 44 games with the WooSox, Valdez batted .237 AVG, 7 HR, 30 OBP.309, SLG .422, OPS .731. He did strikeout 48 times which means he played fewer games with more strikeouts. Other than these two options, I do not see Boston moving second baseman Christian Arroyo over to shortstop when they need him to play at second.
External Options For The Red Sox At Short
Rumors have swirled around that two-time former Red Sox shortstop José Iglesias would be another option filling for Story while he recovers from injury. Back in 2021, he rejoined the Red Sox, playing in 23 games, contributing 21 hits, and hitting 1 HR, 7 RBIs while batting .356 AVG. I mean, at this point in the offseason, what does Boston really have for many options? Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom needs to make moves fast and furious if they plan on contending in 2023 with the roster they have at the moment. Other options the Red Sox may look at would be Didi Gregorius, Elvis Andrus, and Andrelton Simmons. These guys are in the later stages of their careers. Boston needs to look for a fix ASAP.
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