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It didn’t take long for the ball to find Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story in his highly anticipated return after an extended absence of 133 games due to an injury. The stage was set for his comeback, and the action unfolded almost immediately. On the very second pitch of the game, White Sox leadoff hitter Nicky Lopez made contact with a solid 99 mph grounder.
As the ball shot off Lopez’s bat, it was heading straight for Story, testing his readiness and agility right from the start. Story, who had spent over four months rehabbing and preparing for this moment, demonstrated why he is a key asset for the Red Sox. He moved swiftly to his left, positioning himself perfectly to handle the sharply hit grounder. With a clean and confident glove work, Story secured the ball and made an accurate throw to first base, effortlessly recording the first out of the game.
The significance of this play wasn’t lost on anyone. Story’s ability to handle such a high-speed grounder with precision right after such a lengthy injury layoff showcased his defensive prowess and reassured fans and teammates alike. His smooth execution of the play marked a promising start to his return and set a positive tone for the rest of the game.
“It’s just kind of how it goes,” Story said. “It’s baseball. The ball is going to find you and it was nice to get that first one out of the way. I felt like it was a busy night.”
Story had a busy night at shortstop as Boston defeated the White Sox 7–5 at Fenway Park. Story turned two double plays and displayed his quick, on-the-run fielding. He also reached on the first ball to be played in the second inning, resulting in a 6-3 putout.
About Story’s defense, manager Alex Cora called it “smooth.” It’s also distinct. He consistently drops the ball. Though there’s no terror there, there are moments when it seems like he’s between hops. A few of excellent double plays. Simply a smooth man. He’s got the shortstop under control.
Story fractured his glenoid rim and dislocated his shoulder when diving for a ball in Anaheim on April 5. On April 12, he had shoulder surgery in Los Angeles, which included a labrum repair. Doctors thought the surgery would finish the season at the moment.
“We didn’t even think I’d be here at this point,” Story said. “It feels like forever ago that I was here fielding questions about having a season-ending injury. Just so grateful for the opportunity to do it.”
The Red Sox lead the major leagues with 103 errors but their defense looked faster and better Saturday with Story back. The infield moved quickly to balls. Boston also could play Ceddanne Rafaela in center field where he has nine defensive runs saved compared to negative-2 at shortstop.
“He’s our quarterback. He is. He is,” Cora said about Story. “That’s what we envisioned in the offseason. Obviously it didn’t work out. But what is it? Twenty more (games)? Hopefully, we can continue to win games and he’s a big part of it.”
Story — who also delivered an RBI single — said playing shortstop means a lot to him. He has 79 career defensive runs saved at the position.
Story stated, “It is a very proud position to be at shortstop.” “Good players are on good teams. Thus, I believe there is a lot of communication regarding the quarterback position. That’s basically all there is to it: just reading swings and keeping each other informed throughout the game. That, in my opinion, is a major component.
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