SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Alex Cora has been at the center of the Red Sox's success throughout the 21st century, winning a World Series as a player in 2007 and as a manager in 2018.

After two last-place finishes, the 48-year-old enters 2024 in the final year of his current contract in Boston. While his future is currently uncertain on a contractual level, Cora noted that the offseason has made him comfortable and allowed him to find trust in the Red Sox moving forward.

"A lot different, I'm in a better place," Cora told reporters on Friday night at Red Sox Winter Weekend at the MassMutual Center. "Obviously, last year was a grind for me. Not only on the field but personally in a sense. I let the season take a hit on me. … We're in a good place right now."

While Cora admitted that maybe the seasons are not like the American League East title runs of 2017 and 2018, the upcoming season has a level of intrigue for the Red Sox manager. Instead of discussing a potential extension at the moment, Cora's sole future is helping the Red Sox compete in 2024.

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"I think the future is the Red Sox and getting these guys better," Cora added. "I'd be very selfish if I start talking about Alex Cora and what the future holds. The best way to do it is to be a good teammate, like I've always been. Let's take care of 2024."

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Cora looks to help Boston return to the postseason for the first time since the 2021 season.

Featured image via Kyle Schwab/USA TODAY Sports Images