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Red Sox Opening Day: 3 biggest strengths of the 2021 roster

By Rudi Richards

FT. MYERS, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Xander Bogaerts #2 talks with Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox during a spring training team workout on February 26, 2021 at jetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
FT. MYERS, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Xander Bogaerts #2 talks with Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox during a spring training team workout on February 26, 2021 at jetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
(Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) /

Red Sox Strength #3: Alex Cora

After parting ways with the Red Sox, in the aftermath of the sign-stealing scandal back in January of last year, Alex Cora‘s name was completely dragged through the mud. Just over a year after he managed the Sox to their greatest season in franchise history, he was shamed and gone, just like that.

Cora was suspended for what he did in Houston, and the MLB’s findings of what went on in Boston weren’t as extreme. These actions should never be taken in this sport or any other for that matter, and Cora knows what he did was wrong. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t deserve another chance and to move on with his life.

He’s getting that second chance with Boston. Cora’s easily one of the most loved managers the Red Sox have had and in 2018, he showed his abilities to manage a ballclub. So, having him back is something to be extremely excited about.

2018 was Cora’s first season as a manager, after winning the World Series with the Astros as a bench coach. For him to be as good in that role as he was straight off the bat isn’t something that happens very often in baseball. The Sox roster he inherited was fantastic in itself, but Cora’s leadership from the dugout was pivotal in guiding them to where they ended up going.

Look no further than that 2020 squad that wasn’t all too different from the teams in 2018 and 2019. The core was still there and yet without AC guiding the ship, it sunk damn near instantly. Being a former player and one that was highly respected during his time on the field has carried over into the manager’s seat. From day one the players have bought into his philosophy and tactics so this season will be a strong display of what he’s capable of.

At a time where so much is changing for this ballclub, this is a very welcome appointment in bringing Cora back by the front office. Cora is going to have a significantly less loaded roster which will put his coaching skills to the test more so this time than last. Does he have the talent to make this group competitive? We’ll see. But, I wouldn’t bet against him.

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