The Boston Red Sox are facing a difficult situation with their high-profile, $140 million shortstop. As injuries continue to plague his time in Boston, Story has reportedly expressed concerns about his future with the team, fueling speculation that he may be looking for a way out.
His time with the Red Sox, which began in 2022, has been marred by injuries, and 2024 was no exception. A devastating shoulder injury during the season opener limited him to just 26 games, bringing his total to 163 games over three seasons. His inability to stay on the field has become a significant issue for the Red Sox, contributing to their defensive struggles and lack of postseason success since his arrival.
Signed to a six-year, $140 million deal, Story was expected to be a key figure in Boston’s future. However, with his health constantly in question, the Red Sox are facing tough decisions. As 2025 approaches, many are calling it a “make-or-break” year for the now 32-year-old star.
In a recent report, Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report labeled Story’s contract as the biggest “nightmare” on the Red Sox’s payroll. While praising his defense—highlighting his 20 Outs Above Average at both shortstop and second base—Reuter suggested that unless Story improves offensively, the Red Sox may feel the pressure to move him aside for younger prospects like Marcelo Mayer or Kristian Campbell.
“Story’s defense has been a positive, but unless he hits, Boston may find itself increasingly tempted to move him out of the way,” Reuter wrote. “It seems possible that Story won’t even be with the Red Sox by 2026.”
The financial implications of such a decision are significant. After the 2025 season, Story will still be owed $50 million of his original $140 million contract. While it would be costly for Boston to part ways with him—whether through trade or release—it wouldn’t be unprecedented. The team made a similar move with Pablo Sandoval in 2017, absorbing a large financial loss to move on from a struggling player.
For now, it’s too early to predict Story’s fate, but with another injury-riddled season behind him, the pressure is on for the 2025 campaign. If Story can stay healthy and turn things around, he could still rewrite his narrative in Boston. However, if the injuries persist, the conversation about his departure will only grow louder.
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