The Boston Red Sox are preparing for what could be their most transformative offseason in recent memory, with manager Alex Cora confident that the team is ready to make bold moves. During a leadership conference at Boston College on Saturday, Cora hinted at a proactive strategy targeting both free agency and trades, sparking enthusiasm among fans.
After an underwhelming 81-81 season, the Red Sox have shifted their focus from player development to enhancing their major league roster. “The internal conversation has been more centered around the big league club than player development, and that’s a positive for the fan base,” Cora remarked, as reported by Chris Cotillo of MassLive. “We have a plan in place. We know what aspects of the roster need improvement, and we’re going to be very aggressive in addressing them.”
The team has already been linked to several high-profile names, including free-agent stars like Blake Snell, Max Fried, and Corbin Burnes, as well as potential trade targets such as Garrett Crochet. Additionally, the Red Sox are reportedly in the mix for Juan Soto, although the Yankees and Mets are viewed as the front-runners. When asked about Soto, Cora playfully acknowledged the slugger’s popularity but refrained from confirming any specific talks. “People seem to love Juan Soto and his shuffle,” he said with a grin.
While Cora remained tight-lipped about his travels, he hinted that he has been busy gathering information, particularly regarding Soto, though he didn’t confirm a meeting with the player’s representatives. “I can’t say if I went or not,” he said. “Obviously, there’s a process in place. We’re trying to gather as much information as possible. This all started at the GM Meetings.”
The Red Sox have already made a move in the bullpen by signing veteran left-handed reliever Justin Wilson to a one-year, $2.25 million deal. Cora expressed optimism about Wilson’s potential to contribute despite some recent struggles. “He had some struggles at the end, but his stuff was really good early in the season,” Cora noted. “He’s a veteran who’s been around for a while. The more the better. That’s the way I see it.”
While the free-agent and trade markets remain relatively quiet, Cora anticipates that activity will ramp up after Tuesday’s deadline for players to accept or decline qualifying offers. “I think everything starts from Tuesday on, business-wise and industry-wise,” he said. “Then we’ll see who’s with who and go from there.”
For now, the Red Sox are focused on building upon the progress made in the previous season. “We’re in a good place,” Cora said. “There were some good stories. Guys improved, and others can still get better. There’s a plan in place.” With heightened expectations and a front office eager to act, the Red Sox are poised to make an offseason splash that could significantly alter their course in the years ahead.
