Red Sox Extend Manager Alex Cora Through 2027

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has secured a three-year contract extension, keeping him with the team through the 2027 season after speculation he might be lured to the Philadelphia Phillies. Meanwhile, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has begun reshaping the front office by hiring Taylor Smith, the former Tampa Bay Rays director of predictive modeling, for a high-ranking role focusing on analytics. Smith, who has experience in player valuation and development, will assume many responsibilities previously held by assistant GM Mike Groopman, who will shift to a more centralized role involving player acquisitions. The Red Sox are also in the process of filling the general manager position, with internal candidate Paul Toboni being a strong contender. These moves reflect Breslow's strategy to enhance the team's analytics capabilities and bolster their competitive edge within the tightly contested AL East. The overall direction aims to ensure stability and effectiveness as the Red Sox prepare for the upcoming offseason and beyond.