Cora emphasized that Story is in a strong mental and physical place entering Year 5 of his six-year contract, noting his value as a baserunning threat and middle-of-the-order presence. With Alex Bregman departing in free agency, Boston is counting on Story’s offense to drive the lineup, and Cora praised Story’s overall approach and readiness this spring.
While Story showed one poor month in May 2025 (.158/.200/.232 with two homers in 95 at-bats), Cora pointed out that he recovered quickly, hitting with purpose after June to finish strong. Defensively, Story faced more challenges, leading AL shortstops in errors (19) and recording the most putouts (219) in the league, though Cora believes he’s addressing mechanical issues and regaining his form with improved arm action and lower-body mechanics.
Cora indicated confidence that Story will perform at a high level again, positioning him to anchor the Red Sox lineup as they bid to maximize his power, on-base capabilities, and speed on the bases in 2026.
