Boston Red Sox second baseman Trevor Story had modified Tommy John surgery that likely will keep him out of the lineup until at least May if not longer.

“Red Sox infielder Trevor Story yesterday underwent a successful internal bracing procedure of the right ulnar collateral ligament (elbow),” the Red Sox said in a statement on Tuesday, a few hours before chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom met with reporters. “Dr. Keith Meister performed the surgery at Texas Metroplex Institute in Arlington, Texas.”

Bloom said uncertainty around Story’s recovery means the Red Sox can’t count on him playing this season. He said the team is hopeful the surgery will make Story “stronger going forward,” and correct past elbow issues.

The Jan. 9 surgery date and projected recovery timetable of 4-6 months for similar operations would leave the Red Sox without another big piece of the lineup for the 2023 season.

Boston also lost shortstop Xander Bogaerts, who left for the San Diego Padres in free agency. Designated hitter J.D. Martinez also left, taking a one-year offer from the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“He was preparing to play shortstop,” Bloom said of Story on Tuesday. “That was something he was preparing to do. His hope was that if Xander left, it was an opportunity he wanted to get. That’s where his head was.”

Bloom indicated the Red Sox aren’t done making moves and are still searching for depth. Free agents available at shortstop include Jose Iglesias, who debuted with the Red Sox in 2011, and Elvis Andrus.

Story turned 30 in November and ended his first season with the Red Sox on the injured list with a bruised left heel. His last game of the season was Sept. 11.

Story signed with the Red Sox following six seasons with the Colorado Rockies. He posted a .238 batting average with 16 home runs and 66 RBIs in 2022.

–Field Level Media