Story was likely to take over at shortstop after Xander Bogaerts left to sign with San Diego.

Rafael Devers’ contract extension is an encouraging sign that the team is willing to spend big to acquire and keep talent.

By locking up a homegrown star for 11 years, the Red Sox show they are serious about competing – and paying a premium to do so.

The third baseman, who will be a free agent after the 2023 season, agrees to a deal for $17.5 million.

Analysis: Downward is not the trajectory the modern-day Red Sox, with wealthy-enough owners and an always-eager fan base, are supposed to move.

Kluber, who turns 37 in April, has agreed to a one-year, $10 million deal with Boston with a team option for 2024, according to ESPN.

Nathan Eovaldi signs with the Texas Rangers and Rich Hill agrees to an $8 million one-year deal with Pittsburgh.

Downs, acquired in a trade with the Dodgers for Mookie Betts, played 14 games for Boston.

Commentary: Parting ways with star players, raising ticket prices and treating lower-level employees fairly has many questioning with John Henry is interested in selling the team.

The acquisition of the free-agent third baseman doesn’t turn Boston into a playoff contender, but he should help lengthen the lineup.