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In a perfect world, if someone other than John Henry had the reins of the Boston Red Sox, the first order of business would be to secure Alex Cora with a lucrative $40 million contract, disregarding his mention of not wanting to negotiate mid-season. By making a robust statement that the Red Sox are committed buyers, it would not only retain Cora’s interest but also emphasize the team’s drive to capitalize on its current progress despite possible pitfalls.
Injuries to key players like shortstop Trevor Story and pitchers Lucas Giolito and Garrett Whitlock, along with first baseman Triston Casas’s absence since April, could have derailed the team. However, an improved pitching staff and a dynamic roster of young talent have kept them competitive, with the team sitting 1 1/2 games shy of the third wild card spot. Alex Cora’s optimistic outlook encourages aiming higher than just sneaking into the playoffs, advocating for aggressive moves to bolster the team’s chances.
John Henry’s recent Financial Times interview highlights a disconnect between management and fan expectations; fans don’t demand annual championships but believe in the franchise’s potential given its high-revenue status. With playoff odds around 32%, the focus should be on making strategic trades, particularly for bolstering the starting rotation and middle infield. This approach would reaffirm the Red Sox’s commitment to winning, foster fan support, and potentially persuade key figures like Cora to stay invested in the team’s future.
