PT TOMORROW: AL East — Deep sixed? What lineup spot means for BOS’ Story

Boston Red Sox

Aside from a couple of occasions on which he pinch hit for pitchers in the 9-hole, Trevor Story (2B, BOS) never hit below fourth for the Rockies in 2021 and batted third in more than half of his games played.

Yet manager Alex Cora recently announced that Story will hit sixth for the Red Sox to open the season.

Presumably, part of the rationale is to keep Boston’s lineup from featuring three straight right-handed batters in any one stretch, which means that whenever an opponent brings a right-handed reliever into a game, that pitcher will have to face at least one left-handed batter to meet his three-batter minimum, unless the end of the inning comes first.

So, Boston’s go-to lineup against righties will feature Rafael...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Max Scherzer is among several AL East pitchers whose recent returns to the mound could have ripple effects on their team's rotation plans.
Mar 10 2026 3:05am
With a number of position battles still underway in the NL West, extra spring training reps for competing players may be the difference between a regular role in the show and a possible trip back to the minors.
Mar 7 2026 3:10am
It's time for the World Baseball Classic; who will see more playing time while players represent their countries in the tournament?
Mar 6 2026 3:05am
Sal Perez's absence for the WBC could mean it's Carter Jensen's time to shine in Royals camp. Plus, looks at WBC impacts on all AL Central rosters.
Mar 5 2026 3:10am
With players leaving camp to play in the WBC, who could gain some playing time increases in the AL West?
Mar 4 2026 3:10am

Tools