BOSTON -- Alex Cora would have had several suitors had he gone to the open market this offseason. Instead, a surprising midseason extension formed to keep Cora as the Red Sox manager through the 2027 season.
The 2018 World Series champion made a commitment to stay even as the Red Sox went on to miss the postseason for a third straight year. The emerging young core, improved starting pitching and incoming prospect talent brightened the future in Cora's eyes.
"We love it here," Cora told reporters at Fenway Park. "... The promise of winning pushed me. I think that's the most important thing. I do believe we're in a good place. I knew we were in a good place when the season started. I'm not gonna show my hand. This is a business too, kid. I think where we're going is going to be fun."
Cora harped on his "last struggle" narrative he shared in recent days, stressing belief that the Red Sox will be a playoff contender in 2025. The correct offseason moves are still needed with the front office needing to walk the walk and take action.
Story continues below advertisement
"I think where we're going as an organization, it's going to be fun again," Cora added. "It starts this offseason. We're gonna work so hard, we're gonna work very hard together. It's for the division. We're not talking about playoffs. The wild card is great, it's part of the tournament. We're shooting for the division. I think we're going to be capable starting next year."
Cora starts Year 7 as Boston's manager on March 27, 2025, when the Red Sox visit the Texas Rangers.
Featured image via Paul Rutherford/Imagn Images
