Trevor Story is entering his 11th MLB season with a clear message: he’s not looking to slow down anytime soon.
After a rocky start to his Red Sox tenure-plagued by injuries that limited him to just 163 games over his first three seasons in Boston-Story flipped the script in 2025. He stayed healthy, stayed on the field, and reminded everyone why Boston invested six years and $140 million in his all-around game.
Matching a career-high with 157 games played, Story turned in a resurgent season, hitting .263 with 25 home runs and swiping 31 bags. That’s the kind of production the Red Sox were banking on when they brought him in, and it’s the kind of performance that turns doubters into believers.
Now, heading into 2026, Story isn’t looking for more rest. In fact, he’s actively pushing back on the idea.
“I understand the question and understand kind of the load management style of it,” Story said. “But yeah, for me, I still feel as strong as I have at any time in my career.”
That’s not just lip service. Story didn’t just play a full season-he thrived.
Among Boston’s infielders, he was the only one to log at least 500 plate appearances. And at 33, he’s not just producing-he’s leading.
For Story, staying in the lineup isn’t just about personal rhythm or statistics. It’s about setting a tone for the younger guys in the clubhouse. He’s been around long enough to know that actions speak louder than words.
“I think it’s a standard to be set for kind of the young guys too,” he said. “Like, you don’t really take days off.”
That veteran presence matters, especially for a Red Sox team that’s mixing youth with experience. Story’s work ethic, durability, and willingness to shoulder a heavy workload send a message: if you want to be great, you show up-every day.
Of course, the decision on playing time doesn’t rest solely with Story. Manager Alex Cora will have to weigh the long grind of a 162-game season, and with the addition of Isiah Kiner-Falefa-who brings defensive versatility and starting experience-the Red Sox have the depth to give Story a breather when needed.
But whether he’s in the lineup or mentoring from the dugout, Story is embracing his role as the clubhouse elder. And his teammates have taken notice-so much so that they’ve given him a new nickname: “Unc.”
“I feel great,” Story said with a grin. “I feel amazing.
I let them know that you can’t let Unc beat them in a foot race. That’s happened.”
So far, “Unc” is showing no signs of slowing down. And if 2025 was any indication, Trevor Story’s second act in Boston might just be getting started.