Alex Cora Reveals How He Was ‘Caught Off Guard’ By Trevor Story

When Trevor Story went down with a serious shoulder injury in early April, the widespread belief was the star shortstop would miss the remainder of the Red Sox season.

It remains to be seen if Story will return to Boston's lineup in 2024, but at the very least, the possibility is on the table. That's due largely to the two-time All-Star's speedy recovery and rehab work, which manager Alex Cora didn't see coming.

"He caught me off guard," Cora told reporters, per The Boston Globe. "We started talking and he said, 'I'm doing this, I'm doing this. I'm hitting on the field this day and there's a chance I'll be ready.'"

Story's latest step in the right direction was Monday when the 31-year-old took batting practice and fielded groundballs at shortstop before the Red Sox's series opener against the Texas Ranger at Fenway Park. Story "felt good" after the training session and was specifically encouraged by the pop in his bat despite minimal effort.

The ninth-year pro still has plenty more work before potentially slotting back into Boston's starting nine. But Cora "truly believes" Story will be part of the equation this season, so don't be surprised if the latter joins the club's fight for a playoff spot.