Trevor Story’s Unlikely Walk-Off Lifts Red Sox Past Blue Jays in Extras

Trevor Story may have grounded out, but it felt like a game-winner. His slow roller — clocked at just 51.5 mph — was mishandled by Blue Jays second baseman Andrés Giménez, but the out didn’t matter. Pinch-runner David Hamilton had already scored, sealing a 4-3, 10-inning Red Sox win Thursday at Fenway.

After being swept in the first three games of the series, this win was a much-needed lift for Boston before heading to Chicago for a six-game road trip.

“It was just a grinder of an at-bat,” Story said. “I didn’t come through the last couple nights, so it felt good to get it done. One of the best [moments] for sure.”

The night before, Story struck out in a key spot in the 10th inning, adding to Boston’s offensive frustration. But manager Alex Cora’s mantra held true: “Just put the ball in play.”

“You hit it off the end, they might miss it,” Cora said. “He kept fighting, fouled off pitches, and something happened.”

It marked Story’s fifth career walk-off RBI and his first since May 2021. After battling injuries in recent seasons, he’s embracing his role as a veteran presence in the lineup — and focusing on making more contact.

“It bothered me a lot,” he said of Wednesday’s strikeout. “But I had a better plan tonight. I can live with that grounder.”

Right-hander Walker Buehler was also a big part of the win, bouncing back with 6 1/3 strong innings, allowing just one run with seven strikeouts. His ERA dropped to 5.74 after two rough outings.

“This is the best I’ve felt in a while,” Buehler said. “We put in a ton of work this week. Now it’s about repeating it.”

Facing off against Toronto’s Chris Bassitt, it was a battle of pitching finesse — Bassitt used eight different pitches, Buehler seven.

“Those two guys today, that’s pitchability,” said Cora. “Our guy was great.”