Staying the Course: Trevor Story Declines Opt-Out, Remains with the Red Sox
The Trevor Story chapter in Boston will extend into at least 2026-27. Sources confirm that Story will not exercise the opt-out clause in his contract with the Boston Red Sox, choosing instead to stick with the club for the final two guaranteed seasons of his deal. (BostonGlobe.com)
Contract Context
Story originally signed a six‐year, $140 million deal with Boston in March 2022, a pact that included a player opt‐out after the fourth year (i.e., after the 2025 season). (wcvb.com)
Under the terms, if he opted out following 2025, the Red Sox had the right to override that by triggering a club option that would tack on a seventh year (2028) at roughly $25 million. (MLB.com)
Instead, Story will play the 2026 and 2027 seasons under his existing contract — reportedly at about $25 million per year — with Boston holding that previously noted club option for 2028. (NESN.com)
Why He (and the Club) Chose to Stay
Several factors likely influenced the decision:
1. Bounce-back season: After three years marred by injury and uneven performance, Story logged 157 games in 2025, batted .263, launched 25 home runs, stole 31 bases, and posted a .741 OPS. (ESPN.com) His resurgence positioned him as a valuable everyday contributor.
2. Risk versus reward: At 32 going on 33, with an injury-heavy recent past, Story may have judged the certainty of the remaining $50–$55 million more attractive than gambling on free agency, especially in a market uncertain for aging infielders. (SI)
Likewise, Boston avoids the uncertainty of trying to replace him (or navigate a market where shortstops and middle infielders are in flux). (ESPN.com)
3. Stability for the infield: With other internal infield questions — such as the status of Alex Bregman, younger prospects like Marcelo Mayer, and overall roster balance — Boston gains clarity by locking in Story. (BostonGlobe.com)
What This Means Going Forward
For Boston:
- Story gives the Red Sox a reliable veteran presence at shortstop (or perhaps a new role at second base, depending on alignment) as they push toward contention.
- The club can focus its offseason and long-term planning knowing Story occupies one key infield spot.
- Financially, Boston retains flexibility: two years guaranteed, with the option year still available.
For Story:
- He keeps a regular role in a major‐league lineup, in a city and franchise where he’s produced his best recent season.
- He avoids the high‐risk path of opting out and hitting the market at age 33 with an injury-heavy background.
- He gets the opportunity to build on his resurgence and perhaps reset his value for what may be his final big contract.
Final Thoughts
Story’s decision reflects a blend of realism and optimism. Realism about the risks of hitting free agency at his age and injury history; optimism that he can continue his resurgence and help Boston contend. And for the Red Sox, it’s a win in terms of continuity and roster architecture heading into a key offseason.
As the clock winds toward Opening Day 2026, keep an eye on how Boston profiles its infield, how Story maintains his health and production, and whether the 2028 option ever comes into play. But for now: Trevor Story is staying in Boston.
