Phillies Continue Managerial Search After Cora’s Decision
The Phillies are facing another challenge in their search for a new manager.
Alex Cora, who led the Red Sox to a World Series title, has decided to take a break for the 2027 season, as confirmed by Jon Heyman. Consequently, he won’t be heading to Philadelphia.
Heyman noted that Cora’s choice is primarily due to family commitments. He has been relishing quality time with loved ones, and on top of that, he’s set to get married in November.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale was the first to break the news on Cora’s decision on Tuesday night.
Earlier this week, Heyman had reported that Cora was considering taking a year off while still being owed over $7 million by the Red Sox for the upcoming year.
This isn’t the first time Cora has declined an offer from the Phillies and their president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, this year. After the Phillies fired Rob Thomson due to a sluggish start, they reached out to Cora, who had just been let go by the Red Sox. Dombrowski and Cora had previously worked together in Boston, leading to a World Series win in 2018.
In late April, Cora shared with the Post, “I accepted to be a full-time dad.”
Subsequently, the Phillies appointed Don Mattingly as their interim manager. Mattingly’s record of 79-55 helped the team sneak into the postseason as the last National League wild-card entry, although they were eliminated in the first round by the Braves.
Though initial reports suggested Mattingly might not return for next season, Heyman indicated that there’s a possibility he could remain in the Philadelphia dugout.
Cora’s tenure with the Red Sox saw him accumulate a record of 620-541 and make three playoff appearances.
This year, after a rough start of 10-17, Cora and much of his coaching staff were let go, with Chad Tracy stepping in as interim manager and later being promoted to a full-time role with a three-year contract.
Unfortunately for the Red Sox, they reached the playoffs but were swept in the wild-card round by the Yankees.
