The Boston Red Sox rode a 15‑game winning streak that propelled them back into contention, but the surge has been tempered by a looming vacancy at shortstop.
Both Trevor Story and top prospect Marcelo Mayer are currently on the injured list, leaving the club with a thin depth chart at the position as the trade deadline looms.
Injury Impact and Contract Situations
Story is slated to earn $25 million next season and holds a $25 million club option for 2028, while Mayer is under contract through 2031, making their long‑term financial commitments a central factor in any roster decisions.
With limited true shortstops available on the market, the Red Sox are weighing external options such as CJ Abrams of the San Diego Padres or Willy Adames of the Tampa Bay Rays, while also evaluating internal candidates.
Curtis Mead, recently added to the roster, is expected to see time at second base, and utility player Caleb Durbin could fill utility roles, but the team still lacks a proven everyday shortstop.
General manager Brian O'Dowd has hinted that a trade could be pursued before the deadline, and that Story might be moved in the offseason if he fails to return to full health.
The moves could reshape the infield, affect the clubhouse dynamics, and influence the team's outlook for the remainder of the season and beyond.