The Boston Red Sox’s offseason kicked off on Tuesday. According to Jeff Passan, Shortstop Trevor Story made the decision not to exercise the opt-out clause in his contract, tying him to the team through at least the 2027 season.

Story will make $25 million in 2026 and 2027 and be a free agent after the 2027 season. Had he opted out of the deal, the Red Sox could have opted back in by adding another year at $25 million for 2028.

Entering 2025, it seemed a certainty that Story would not opt out of his contract. Over his first three seasons with the Red Sox, he hit .232 and missed significant time due to injuries. In his first fully healthy season, he was rejuvenated and posted a .741 OPS with 25 home runs and 31 stolen bases.

Story played in all but five games for the Red Sox in 2025 and was an anchor in the middle of the defense. Towards the end of the season, he struggled with errors, which could be in part due to worn-down legs after a long campaign.

Alex Bregman opted out of his contract on Monday. Story is a right-handed hitter with home run power that the Red Sox will rely on in 2026, but resigning Bregman or adding another right-handed bat will be a priority this offseason.

Craig Breslow also emphasized the need to add to the rotation, which could be done through either trades or free agency.

Free agency begins on Thursday, November 6.