Alex Cora has recently turned down the chance to manage the Philadelphia Phillies, according to a source who spoke to The Athletic. This followed the Phillies’ decision to appoint Don Mattingly as the interim manager after dismissing Rob Thomson.
Cora, 50, was courting the idea of managing again after being let go by the Boston Red Sox on Saturday. However, he decided to spend the summer in Puerto Rico with his fiancée, Angelica, and their twin sons, Xander and Isander, who will celebrate their 9th birthday in July. Cora also has a daughter, Camila, who is pursuing graduate studies at the University of Miami.
Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, confirmed he made a formal offer to Cora. Dombrowski praised Cora, stating, “I think he has a chance to be among the best managers in baseball history.” They discussed the job again on Sunday, but Cora felt it wasn’t the right time for him.
Cora led the Red Sox to a World Series title in 2018, a team shaped by Dombrowski, so taking a new job so soon after his firing would have been surprising. He was concerned he wouldn’t be able to give his best to the Phillies.
While Mattingly is currently in place, the possibility remains that Cora could be a strong candidate for the Phillies or other teams searching for a manager by the end of the season. Many teams will likely want to secure a manager, especially as the offseason approaches.
Taking the summer to recharge gives Cora a unique opportunity, as most people in baseball rarely have a break during this time. He can focus on family, coach his sons, and prepare for his upcoming wedding in November.
On social media, Cora expressed gratitude to Red Sox fans with a heartfelt message. The interaction with fans demonstrates his desire to maintain connections even as he takes this personal time. For a deeper look into managerial shifts in MLB, check out the latest insights from ESPN.
As the baseball world watches, Cora’s decision could reshape the landscape of baseball management.
Source link
Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, MLB
