Over the last few weeks Trevor Story has been in vintage form
In his return from the IL, Trevor Story has been a different player
Photo Credit: (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
As the 2022 season winds down, the focus for the Red Sox will be on 2023 and beyond. One player who is vital to their success is Trevor Story. The veteran infielder has had an up-and-down season but has been an on-base machine over the last few weeks. In his return from the injured list, he has been the player the Red Sox expected him to be when he was signed to a six-year deal in the offseason.
In seven September games, Story has posted a .296 batting average. He has five runs batted in and eight hits in 27 at-bats. The Texas native has also posted a .556 slugging percentage. While it is a small sample size, Story has been hitting the ball with more authority. However, his turnaround began in August.
After returning to the lineup on August 27th, Story hit .467 in four games to finish the month. The former 45th overall pick had two three-hit games against the Twins and provided an instant spark to the Red Sox offense despite missing over a month. That success has continued in September, which is an encouraging sign for the Red Sox.
Additionally, since returning from a right-hand contusion, Story has six extra-base hits in his last 42 at-bats. During that stretch, he has continued to terrorize opponents on the bases with three stolen bases. So far this season, he has not been caught in 13 stolen base attempts. When Story is at his best, he affects the game in multiple ways.
While the veteran infielder has impressed at the plate, he has been stellar in the field. He seemingly adds to his highlight reel on a nightly basis, and his range has been on full display. That part of his game was missed when he was out of the lineup. In 799.2 innings of the play this season, the 29-year-old has only committed five errors. For Story to go into the offseason playing his best baseball of the season is huge for the Red Sox.
Although Story’s improved play has not translated to wins, his offense has been hard to ignore. Since returning from the IL, he has a 1.044 OPS and .605 slugging percentage. He is currently locked in at the plate and should head into the offseason primed for a big 2023 campaign.
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