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

Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
The Angels may be trading some starting pitchers at the deadline, and George Klassen will be ready to help the team.
Jul 22 2026 3:05am
George Lombard Jr. has returned to health; could a major league call-up be next? Plus, major trade deadline implications as several AL East teams veer towards buyer or seller territory.
Jul 21 2026 3:05am

Tools