Red Sox’ Trevor Story notches RBI hit in 2024 Fenway Park debut

Story batted seventh in Boston’s lineup and played shortstop in his first MLB game since April 5.

Trevor Story said he’s excited to play meaningful baseball for the Red Sox down the stretch. Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images

Trevor Story made his presence felt in the Red Sox’ lineup in his 2024 Fenway Park debut on Saturday night.

In his first MLB action since dislocating his shoulder back on April 5 in Los Angeles, Story collected an RBI single in the bottom of the third inning to give Boston a 6-2 lead over the Chicago White Sox at the time.

Watch the 31-year-old’s bloop single to drive in second baseman Romy Gonzalez:

That hit was ultimately Story’s only knock of the night. He went 1-for-4 at the plate and struck out twice.

After undergoing what was deemed season-ending shoulder surgery on April 12, his return to the diamond on Saturday was unprecedented. Story played in the field at shortstop for the Red Sox less than five months after being on the operating table.

The shortstop discussed his happiness about being able to suit up for Boston despite his initial lengthy recovery timeline at the beginning of the season.

“We didn’t think I would be here at this point,” Story said postgame. “It feels like forever ago when I was fielding questions about it being a season-ending injury. Just so grateful for the opportunity to do it.”

He also explained that he’s looking forward to helping the Red Sox as the team vies for the third and final American League wild card spot over the next few weeks.

“We didn’t think this day would be possible this soon,” Story said before the game, per MassLive’s Christopher Smith. “So it truly is a blessing that I’m even in this situation. It’s a big win for me personally just to come back this year and get some games under my belt. So excited about that and just pumped about joining the team and playing some games that matter.”

With Story’s return, manager Alex Cora said on Friday that Story is the Red Sox’ shortstop. That means Ceddanne Rafaela, who has played in 81 games at shortstop for the team this season, will move to second base when he isn’t in center field moving forward.