Alex Cora Challenges Red Sox Roster For Physically Stronger Offseason

BOSTON — Alex Cora watched the Red Sox falter in the second half of the season once again resulting in a third straight postseason absence.

“We’ve been talking about physicality,” Cora said. “This is a good time for us to address that. September has been a challenge for us the last few years. Is it physical? Is it mental? We’ll take a look at it. The message is loud and clear.”

Cora specifically referenced Jarren Duran and Ceddanne Rafaela for staying healthy all season while pushing the pressure of the game with a dynamic playstyle for the Red Sox. While those two will have more rest next year, Cora appreciated such a set precedent.

“He showed the entire clubhouse and the kids in the minor leagues that it’s possible,” Cora added.

The Red Sox need their players to stay healthy and enter 2025 with stronger bodies to play to the dynamic style and stay on the field, considering those factors derailed yet another season in Boston.

“You’ve got to attack the offseason the right way,” Cora said. “That’s what we’re talking about.”

Prior to the end of the season, Cora specifically challenged Red Sox relievers to “become monsters” this offseason to improve stuff and increase availability to challenge the better bullpens in baseball.

“Take a look at around the league,” Cora offered. “The best bullpens, they’ve got horses out there. They’re freaking big and strong. Look at Cleveland, all those guys having 60-something appearances. They were really, really good. You look at them and they looked the part. I’m not saying our guys are weak. (Justin) Slaten, he can be stronger. He had a great season. Same thing with Zack Kelly. Stuff is great. How are we going to be consistent three times a week instead of being consistent two? That’s the message. This season after LA, we struggled.”

With Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin reaching expiring contracts, the Red Sox have several key decisions to make this winter.