The Boston Red Sox announced that they have extended the contract for manager Alex Cora through at least the 2021 season.
Who needs a Manager of the Year trophy? Alex Cora has a World Series trophy to celebrate instead and the rookie manager’s role in leading the Boston Red Sox to that title has earned him a new contract.
The Red Sox announced on Wednesday that they have reached an agreement with Cora on a new deal that includes a one-year extension through the 2021 season, with a club option for 2022.
#RedSox and manager Alex Cora today agreed to new terms on a contract, including a one-year extension through the 2021 season, with a club option for 2022.
— Red Sox (@RedSox) November 14, 2018
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski made the announcement. pic.twitter.com/HKLYJh392m
Cora’s original contract spanned from 2018-2020 with a club option for 2021. That last season is now guaranteed with the potential for an additional year if the new option is picked up.
"“We have consistently been impressed by Alex at every turn,” said Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner in a press release announcing the move (per MLB Trade Rumors). “His knowledge of the game, ability to connect with our players, and his incredible instincts and decisiveness led us to a historic championship season. We know we are in good hands, and could not be more pleased to know he will be with us for the foreseeable future.”"
It’s unclear if the new contract includes a pay raise, although one would clearly be warranted. A USA Today survey in August revealed that Cora was among the lowest paid managers in MLB. That’s not all that surprising given his lack of experience in the role but Cora has more than proven himself by leading the Red Sox to a championship in his first season at the helm.
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Under the leadership of Cora, Boston won a franchise record 108 regular season games. That win total was the second-most ever by a rookie manager, trailing only Ralph Houk of the 1961 New York Yankees (109 wins).
Cora finished second behind Bob Melvin of the Oakland A’s for the Manager of the Year award.
The Red Sox won consecutive division titles prior to Cora’s arrival but his addition to this clubhouse made a drastic change that was apparent from the start of spring training. His communication skills and ability to connect with his players is in stark contrast to his predecessor, John Farrell. Upgrading to Cora proved to be the difference between the Red Sox being first-round fodder and World Champions.
This extension signals the front office is confident that this was no fluke. They believe in Cora and expect him to in their dugout for the foreseeable future. Cora was a breath of fresh air for Red Sox fans who grew tired of Farrell. We can now rejoice in knowing that Cora isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.