Boston Red Sox: Is Alex Cora’s return imminent?
Just a couple of weeks ago, the Boston Red Sox and Alex Cora agreed to mutually part ways. Their recent managerial hire, however, may signal an eventual return.
When the details of the Astros sign-stealing scandal emerged a few weeks ago, it became apparent that former Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora played a large role. Then when it became known that the Red Sox had continued to electronically steal signs under Cora in 2018 after being fined in 2017, the team and their manager mutually agreed to part ways.
That was in mid-January.
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Since then, baseball has dragged its feet in releasing details of the 2018 Red Sox sign-stealing scandal. The Astros replaced AJ Hinch with Dusty Baker and even found a new general manager in James Click.
As for the Red Sox, they too have dragged their feet, reportedly waiting for the results of MLB’s investigation to replace Cora.
Now, it seems that baseball is getting ready to release its findings regarding the 2018 sign-stealing affair and all signs point in Boston’s favor. In fact, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, “two high-ranking officials involved in the investigation told USA TODAY Sports they believe that the Red Sox will receive no more than a light punishment, with little evidence of cheating.”
Within the same piece, Nightengale also reported that the Red Sox would be promoting Alex Cora’s bench coach Ron Roenicke to be the team’s manager. The announcement will be made after the results of MLB’s investigation are released.
This kind of reminds me of what takes place when a manger is tossed from a game by an official. The bench coach slides on over to the big chair temporarily only to return to his post the next game.
It makes me wonder if Alex Cora receives the same punishment as Hinch and Jeff Luhnow, could he return to his post for the 2021 MLB season?
It already seems like the Boston Red Sox are pressing the reset button for the 2020 season, dumping salary and making underwhelming free-agent signings. Might as well hand over the reins to the number two guy in the coaching staff for the time being.