Here’s how hot each MLB manager’s seat will get in 2018
By Brad Weiss
Alex Cora, Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox won the AL East last season, but still felt the need to make a move at the manager role. Boston brought in Alex Cora for his first go-around as a Major League manager, and he brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.
In 2017, the Red Sox won 93 games, but their offense really had no pop. This offseason, they decided to spend some money on a home run hitter, bringing in J.D. Martinez to be the man in the middle of the lineup.
Martinez can flat out rake, and he should have a huge season playing inside Fenway Park. The Red Sox also have good pitching at the front of their rotation, as they return Chris Sale, who is the best left-handed starter in the big leagues.
Last season, Cora served as the bench coach for the Houston Astros, who went on to win the World Series. His deal with Boston runs through the 2020 season, and he certainly has the mental approach to do some good things in his first contract.
Red Sox faithful are going to want to win right now, so Cora needs to get off to a good start in his first season as a manager. He is only 42-years old, and has not been out of the game that long, so he should have a great rapport with the players in year one.