Red Sox Manager Alex Cora returns to the dugout after disputing a call during the fourth inning of the game between Boston and the Philadelphia Phillies at Fenway Park. (Getty Images)
Opinion editorial by WBZ NewsRadio political analyst Jon Keller
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Alex Cora is out as Red Sox manager. And the statement issued by him and the team last night provides no answers to the many questions I have.
First and foremost, what exactly did Cora do wrong?
Major League Baseball’s report on the Houston Astros sign-stealing scheme places Cora, then their bench coach, at the center of it. Is Cora conceding the accuracy of those charges?
His statement doesn’t say.
Nor does he admit to subsequent violations after joining the Sox two years ago. All we’re told is that the team doesn’t think it’s possible for Cora to “effectively lead the club going forward,” and Cora says he doesn’t want to be a “distraction.” I want to know precisely what went on here.
Meanwhile, if we assume that MLB had it right, that Cora was intent on violating clearly-stated rules against using technology to steal the opposing catchers’ signs, wouldn’t you like to know why?
The guy was an experienced baseball man, well-liked by all, involved with teams here and in Houston that were loaded with talent and seemingly capable of competing without cheating.
Why did he do it?
Was he a lone wolf of sorts, or did he feel pressure from above to cheat? Was this an aberration, or was Cora personally dishonest in other ways?
And what about the culpability of the players themselves?
We know one thing – Cora might have stolen the signs, but it wouldn’t do him any good if the players hadn’t taken the information and run with it.
This is a huge blow to Red Sox fans who really admired Cora.
Enquiring minds want the full story, sooner rather than later.
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You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday mornings at :55 minutes past the hour. Listen to his previous podcasts on iHeartRadio.