Marcelo Mayer is reportedly being considered for a move back to shortstop by the Boston Red Sox. This discussion surfaces as current shortstop Trevor Story faces an indefinite absence due to a sports hernia, landing him on the injured list. The team's interim manager, Chad Tracy, has confirmed that discussions about shifting Mayer to his natural position have begun.
The Red Sox are contemplating moving Marcelo Mayer back to shortstop, a position he played extensively in the minors, following Trevor Story's placement on the injured list due to a sports hernia.
Mayer himself has expressed openness to the change, stating, "Wherever they need me to play, I’ll play." He has reportedly been taking groundballs at shortstop, indicating a potential readiness should the team make the move. This comes as Mayer has primarily played second base in his first 85 major league games, despite logging 269 minor league games at shortstop. His defensive metrics at second base, however, have been notable, with the article from 'bostonsportsjournal.com' pointing out that only six second basemen have accumulated more 'Outs Above Average' this season.
Read More: Jannik Sinner wins 2026 Italian Open ending 50 year wait for Italy
The situation is fluid, with the decision reportedly contingent on the precise timeline of Story's recovery and potential surgery. While the Red Sox have other options at shortstop, Mayer is seen as possessing the most significant upside for the position. Initially, upon Story's injury, the team was hesitant to immediately shift Mayer, given his recent reps at second base.
Trevor Story was placed on the 10-Day Injured List, retroactive to May 15th, with the team recalling INF/OF Nick Sogard from Triple-A Worcester to fill his spot. For the immediate future, the plan at shortstop did not originally include Mayer, but this outlook could change significantly if Story requires surgery and faces extended time off the field. Story's transition to Boston was reportedly aided by other players, and he has been a significant presence for the team. Mayer, one of the Red Sox's highly-touted prospects, made the major league roster amid a disappointing start to the season for the club.
Read More: Alek Manoah Sent to Triple-A After Poor Pitching vs Dodgers
