Red Sox Struggle with Five-Game Losing Streak, Cora Maintains Leadership Amid Playoff Hopes

The Boston Red Sox have struggled through a disappointing start to the 2025 season, holding a 28-31 record after a recent five-game losing streak, despite high expectations fueled by offseason acquisitions like Garrett Crochet and Alex Bregman. Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow acknowledged the team's underperformance, citing issues with offense and defense synchronization, fielding errors, and base-running mistakes, but expressed confidence in manager Alex Cora, especially given his recent contract extension. Cora has faced criticism for his pitching decisions, notably pulling a well-performing starter early in a game, which frustrated many fans, though analysts and insiders largely agree he remains secure in his role due to organizational trust and the chaotic circumstances. The team has also placed heavy demands on young players like Kristian Campbell and Marcelo Mayer, with Cora admitting he may have asked too much of Campbell, whose performance has suffered amid positional changes and pressure. Despite the current struggles and a significant drop in playoff odds, experts maintain that the season is not yet lost, emphasizing the potential impact of prospects rising through the farm system and the importance of stabilizing the roster and performance moving forward. Overall, the Red Sox are under pressure to improve quickly but appear committed to continuity in leadership while exploring options to turn the season around.