The Boston Red Sox and their fans recently heard that Trevor Story's long-term shoulder injury isn't season-ending.
The veteran shortstop sustained a shoulder subluxation after he dove in front of a grounder off the bat of Mike Trout. It was just the eighth game of Boston's season, and the surgery that followed his injury led the Sox to believe they'd play the rest of the season without Story in the lineup.
But the 31-year-old recovered faster than expected, and he's progressed from fielding drills to batting practice in recent weeks. Now, Story has his eye on a rehab assignment.
Rob Bradford of WEEI reported on Aug. 29 that Story hopes to begin a rehab assignment with the WooSox soon. An official start date was not reported but Alex Speier of The Boston Globe said the assignment could begin early next week. Rehab assignments carry a maximum timeline of 20 days, meaning Sox fans could see Story in a Red Sox uniform shortly after his rehab stint begins.
Red Sox should prioritize development of young players over playing Trevor Story if he returns from IL
Trevor Story said plan is for rehab assignment to start next, probably with @WooSox
— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) August 28, 2024
If Boston hopes to use Story during its playoff push, his rehab assignment should start soon. Just 29 games remain in the Red Sox's season, and they sit three games back of a wild card spot.
But upon Story's return, he shouldn't be an everyday player, especially if the Sox drop out of playoff contention. Ceddanne Rafaela has posted a Rookie of the Year-caliber season between shortstop and center field, and his playing time in the infield shouldn't take a backseat to Story.
The Red Sox are banking on a wave of top prospects making it to the big leagues next season. Marcelo Mayer will likely factor into their play next year, and his development will be key to Boston's long-term success. Story's years of MLB experience and outstanding defense could help Mayer learn on the fly next year, and his health should be prioritized.
Story's tenure as a Red Sox has been defined by injuries. He's played 145 games since he joined the organization nearly three seasons ago and his pricey contract has hardly been worth it so far. The Sox must prioritize his health and the growth of their young players for next season.