UPDATE: Following a crushing 4-0 defeat to the New York Yankees in Game 3 of the Wild Card series, Boston Red Sox leaders are urging teammates to “remember the feeling” of loss as they reflect on a season that ended abruptly on October 5, 2023.
Trevor Story and Alex Bregman, the team’s key players, were visibly emotional as they left Yankee Stadium. Story was the last player in the dugout, while Bregman lingered in the clubhouse, where players shared tearful goodbyes. Bregman stated, “Remember the feeling, because it sucks. You don’t want to feel it. Take it into your offseason and continue to get better.”
The Red Sox had high hopes after clinching one of the American League’s three wild card spots with 89 wins. Their postseason journey began with a thrilling victory in Game 1, but expectations were dashed with a tough loss in Game 2 and a final blow on Thursday. Story expressed his disappointment, saying, “Watching them celebrate, that’s something that’ll motivate us going forward.”
For Story, this marks yet another early postseason exit, as he reflected on the missed opportunity for a deeper playoff run. “It’s a lot of experience for young guys and veteran guys, too. I think it’s a building block for what we’re gonna do for years to come,” he added.
Bregman, who joined the Red Sox this season, emphasized the importance of their journey, stating, “We set out on a goal. We didn’t get there this year. But proud of the fight all year long. The future’s bright.”
Both players acknowledged the emotional weight of this loss, particularly in light of the team’s progress after three challenging seasons. “There’s a lot of things we can be proud of this season,” said Story. “We had an ultimate goal and we didn’t get that done. This one stings.”
As the team prepares for a potential roster overhaul before returning to spring training in February 2024, the weight of their recent defeat looms large. “You just want to keep playing, man,” Story lamented, highlighting the bond formed among teammates throughout the season.
The Red Sox will now focus on regrouping during the offseason, determined to convert this disappointment into motivation for future success. The emotional impact of the loss may resonate through the offseason, as players reflect on their journey and prepare for the challenges ahead.
