The Red Sox’s COVID-19 outbreak will keep manager Alex Cora out of action for the foreseeable future.
The organization confirmed Thursday afternoon that Cora tested positive for COVID before Boston’s home game versus Toronto. Cora, who the Sox claim is completely vaccinated and fortified against the disease, is allegedly exhibiting mild symptoms and will not accompany the team to St. Petersburg for the upcoming series against the Tampa Bay Rays.
In Cora’s absence, bench coach Will Venable will take over management of the club.
The Red Sox manager, along with catchers Kevin Plawecki and Christian Vázquez, infielder Jonathan Araúz (all allegedly vaccinated), and two staffers, tested positive for COVID in the past week.
The Boston Red Sox could be looking for their next manager in the coming years.
Alex Cora has established himself as the Red Sox’s manager for the foreseeable future, and he could likely keep the job for as long as he wants. Unfortunately, the former middle infielder does not seem to covet that role for long.
Cora indicated to Cotillo on MassLive’s “Fenway Rundown” podcast that he does not intend to be a manager for the next many decades.
“What the future holds, I don’t know,” Cora told Cotillo. “As I’ve stated, I’m not here to be Tito Francona or Tony La Russa.” I believe there is more to life than simply being a manager. “We will see what happens.”
Cora has shown an interest in working in the front office and is expected to do so sometime this decade. Given Cora’s excellent relationship with the Red Sox’s ownership group, Boston is likely to offer him that opportunity.
