In a shocking revelation, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora told media members on Friday that he believes shortstop Trevor Story will eventually return in 2024. Cora said that Story will take batting practice on the field on Monday, which he termed a “huge step” for the 31-year-old. Story has been out since April 6 with a left shoulder dislocation. Cora gave no concrete timetable for an expected return date for his middle infielder. The manager also said that starting pitcher Nick Pivetta, who is out with arm fatigue, is set to throw a bullpen session on Monday. His next start is slated for either Wednesday (vs. Texas Rangers) or Thursday (vs. Baltimore Orioles).

Red Sox’s Trevor Story Trending Towards Shocking Return

Story suffered a serious injury on a diving play in early April. It was announced that he required what was termed as “season-ending surgery”, which he had on April 12. After spending just under two weeks on the 10-day injured list, Story was transferred to the 60-day IL on April 18, where he’s been since. Story has been around the team but hasn’t really ramped up baseball activity since getting hurt. He had previously stated last month that he hoped to potentially return this season. Cora’s emphatic comments on Friday open the door for said comeback.

Story played just eight games this year for Boston before the injury. He batted .226 with a .617 OPS and three doubles. It’s been a rocky road with the Red Sox for Story, who has consistently been hurt. Since signing a 6-year, $140 million deal in 2022, with the option to make it seven, the infielder has played just 145 games over three seasons. Story played 94 contests in 2022, missing time due to hand and heel issues. He appeared just 43 times last year after starting on the IL with an elbow injury. Over his three campaigns in Boston, Story has batted .227 with a .681 OPS and 19 home runs. He began his career with the Colorado Rockies, slashing .272/.340/.523 in six seasons.