Trevor Story will sit out the final game of the season, officially ending a season that once looked like it was over before it had even begun.
“Manager’s decision. I think he showed that he’s healthy, we’re trying to win the game but at the same time one game here, one game there, it is what it is,” manager Alex Cora said of the decision to sit Story. “What he did this year was amazing, when he was lying on the ground in Anaheim I’m like no chance he’s going to play. We get the news later on and I’m like he ain’t playing until next year, then he showed up in LA and he says I’m playing.
“Normal offseason just like last year,” Cora continued. “Attack the right way, there’s some things offensively we believe are working and I expect he’ll be ready and be playing shortstop in Arlington for the first game next year.”
Nick Sogard will start at shortstop in his place, with Vaughn Grissom starting at second base, Enmanuel Valdez at third base, Triston Casas at first and Ceddanne Rafaela in center field.
As expected, Quinn Priester has been called up and will start Boston’s season finale against Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Ryan Pepiot (8-7, 3.64). The Red Sox optioned left-hander Zach Penrod to clear space on the active roster in the team’s final roster move of the season.
Boston and Tampa Bay both enter Sunday at 80-81, so the final game will determine which club finishes third in the AL East, and also which finishes at an even .500 or with a losing record.
Red Sox lineup
Jarren Duran LF
Vaughn Grissom 2B
Triston Casas 1B
Connor Wong C
Wilyer Abreu RF
Nick Sogard SS
Ceddanne Rafaela CF
Mickey Gasper DH
Enmanuel Valdez 3B
How to watch
When: 3:05 p.m.
Where: Fenway Park, Boston
Broadcast info: NESN, WEEI 93.7 FM, WCCM 1490 AM (Spanish)
