Trevor Story to Stay with Red Sox Through 2026

BOSTON — Trevor Story is staying in Boston. The veteran shortstop has decided not to opt out of his contract, sources told ESPN on Tuesday, ensuring his return to the Red Sox for the 2026 season. Story still has two years and $55 million remaining on his six-year, $140 million deal, which initially ran through 2027.

Had he opted out, Boston could have extended the contract with an additional $25 million club option, but the 32-year-old’s decision to remain offers both stability and familiarity for a team in transition. His choice also signals confidence in the organization’s direction after a year marked by injuries, roster turnover, and the rise of promising young talent.

Story’s return provides the Red Sox with much-needed consistency at a premium position. While his defensive performance in 2025 drew mixed reviews, he delivered a strong offensive campaign and stayed healthy for the first time in years — an encouraging sign for Boston’s long-term plans.

For the Red Sox, who face potential infield reshuffling following Alex Bregman’s opt-out, Story’s commitment ensures the team retains at least one proven veteran presence in the middle of the diamond as it looks to blend experience with youth heading into 2026.

1. A Resurgence After Injury-Plagued Seasons

Story’s 2025 campaign represented a crucial turning point in his Boston tenure. After three injury-marred seasons that limited his impact, the shortstop reestablished himself as a dependable offensive contributor, batting .263 with 25 home runs, 96 RBIs, and 31 stolen bases in 32 attempts. His return to health allowed him to play 157 games, a significant milestone given his previous absences. While advanced defensive metrics placed him among the league’s lower-ranked shortstops, his athleticism and leadership remained key assets in a season where the Red Sox endured numerous lineup absences. The timing of Story’s rebound could not have been more critical. Boston entered the offseason facing uncertainty in the infield, and Story’s stability, coupled with his offensive production, became a reassuring constant for the front office. His skill set — blending speed, power, and base-running efficiency — offered flashes of the dynamic player who once starred in Colorado. That resurgence made him an appealing trade or opt-out candidate on paper, but a thin free-agent market for middle infielders and the security of his current deal made staying in Boston the more logical move.

2. Youth Movement Around a Veteran Core

While Story remains a central figure, the Red Sox are clearly leaning toward youth as they shape their roster for the future. Prospects Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell are both on track to compete for major league roles, adding depth to an infield that will likely undergo significant change this winter. At the same time, Alex Bregman’s decision to opt out of the final two years of his $120 million contract leaves a major void at third base. Story’s veteran experience could therefore take on added importance as Boston evaluates whether to pursue a replacement through free agency or promote from within. In the outfield, the emergence of rookie Roman Anthony has given the Red Sox new energy. His breakout performance in 2025 helped offset the loss of Rafael Devers, who was dealt midseason to the San Francisco Giants in a move that shocked many around the league. Alongside Anthony, Ceddanne Rafaela and potential trade chips Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu round out a group rich in athleticism and upside. Together, the mix of youth and experience reflects Boston’s broader strategy — rebuilding toward contention while keeping seasoned veterans like Story as anchors for a roster still taking shape.

3. Eyes on a Return to Contention

For Story, the decision to stay goes beyond financial security. It’s also about unfinished business. The Red Sox have hovered around mediocrity since his arrival, and the 2025 season, while individually redemptive for him, ended short of playoff contention. His return symbolizes a belief that the team can turn the corner in 2026. Boston’s front office has signaled a desire to compete immediately, and Story’s leadership is expected to play a central role in that push. His chemistry with manager Alex Cora and mentorship of younger players like Mayer and Campbell could prove vital as the franchise bridges its rebuilding and competitive phases. The Red Sox will likely make additional moves to strengthen both their infield and rotation this offseason, but Story’s presence provides a measure of certainty — something the team has lacked since its 2018 World Series core began to break apart. For a player who once faced doubts about durability and decline, Story’s renewed health and production offer a reminder of his enduring value. Boston, in turn, gains a reliable contributor and veteran leader who still believes the club’s best days are ahead.