Alex Cora has remained in close contact with his friend and former Astros teammate Alex Bregman despite the latter's status as a free agent. The Red Sox manager revealed on the "Section 10" podcast that he texts Bregman every day, exchanging pleasantries and discussing their shared goals for the upcoming season.
Cora emphasized how much he values Bregman's leadership qualities and defensive prowess at third base. He recalled how Bregman seamlessly integrated into the Red Sox' clubhouse, frequently chatting with younger players like Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer, who praised his mentorship and willingness to help. The manager noted that Bregman played a crucial role in the team's success last year, particularly after Rafael Devers was injured.
While Cora acknowledged that Bregman has opted out of his contract with the Red Sox, he expressed his desire to re-sign him. "The leadership part of it is real," Cora said. "The player is real. The defense is amazing." He also highlighted how well Bregman meshed with the team's atmosphere, including participating in a popular Sam Adams commercial.
However, the manager tempered expectations by acknowledging that this offseason will be crucial in determining whether the Red Sox can build on their promising 2025 season. Cora noted that while they only played three games in the postseason, it was a "step in the right direction" and that he believes the team has the potential to take the next step forward.
Bregman is widely regarded as one of the top free agents available this offseason, with some predicting a six-year deal worth over $150 million. His decision to opt out of his contract will likely have significant implications for the Red Sox' offseason plans and their chances of competing in 2026.
Cora emphasized how much he values Bregman's leadership qualities and defensive prowess at third base. He recalled how Bregman seamlessly integrated into the Red Sox' clubhouse, frequently chatting with younger players like Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer, who praised his mentorship and willingness to help. The manager noted that Bregman played a crucial role in the team's success last year, particularly after Rafael Devers was injured.
While Cora acknowledged that Bregman has opted out of his contract with the Red Sox, he expressed his desire to re-sign him. "The leadership part of it is real," Cora said. "The player is real. The defense is amazing." He also highlighted how well Bregman meshed with the team's atmosphere, including participating in a popular Sam Adams commercial.
However, the manager tempered expectations by acknowledging that this offseason will be crucial in determining whether the Red Sox can build on their promising 2025 season. Cora noted that while they only played three games in the postseason, it was a "step in the right direction" and that he believes the team has the potential to take the next step forward.
Bregman is widely regarded as one of the top free agents available this offseason, with some predicting a six-year deal worth over $150 million. His decision to opt out of his contract will likely have significant implications for the Red Sox' offseason plans and their chances of competing in 2026.
I think it's cool that Alex Cora is still keeping in touch with Alex Bregman, especially since they played together on the Astros. It shows he values his friendship and thinks highly of Bregman's skills on the field. The fact that Bregman was a game-changer for the Red Sox last season when Devers got hurt is no joke 
. Now, it'll be interesting to see if Cora can convince him to come back with a new contract. With all the big free agent signings this offseason, it's gonna be tough for any team to build on last year's success... but I guess that's what makes it so exciting 
anyway i think the redsox shouldve traded him 2 years ago when they had a shot @ the playoffs
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. Still, gotta respect Cora for being upfront about the situation – no sugarcoating here 
. And can we talk about how awesome it is that Bregman's been able to build that chemistry with Roman and Marcelo? That kind of leadership and team-first mentality is what sets elite players apart from the rest 
. Fingers crossed Cora can work out a deal and get his guy back – the Sox would be crazy not to try 
. But, I gotta be honest, I'm a bit skeptical about Bregman's decision to opt out of his contract. $150 million is a huge chunk of change 
, it's nice to see a manager investing time in his star player's well-being, but 150 million dollars for just one season? that's crazy 
. The Sox are hoping to make some big moves this offseason, but they need to convince him that staying is the way to go. It's all about finding that right balance between keeping their core players and making room for new talent.
like what even is this? Are they still friends despite not playing together? It sounds so weird, but at the same time it's kinda cool that they're close I mean, you'd think Cora would want to sign him back and all, but yeah, he's saying he wants to re-sign him. Ugh, the math on Bregman's contract is crazy $150 million?! I guess that's what happens when you're super talented 
. It shows how much they value their friendship and respect each other as teammates, you know? And Cora knows his stuff - Bregman's leadership and defensive skills are top-notch 
. But at the same time, this offseason is gonna be crucial for them - they gotta build on that promising 2025 season 