Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has escaped penalty for seemingly hinting the team was trying to hit New York Yankees star Aaron Judge with a pitch last weekend.
Multiple reports said Tuesday that Cora will not be suspended.
The league reportedly was investigating Cora’s comments.
The incident stemmed from Saturday’s game when Yankees ace Gerrit Cole hit Red Sox star Rafael Devers in the first inning and then intentionally walked him in the fourth with the bases empty.
An angry Cora was of the belief that Cole intentionally hit Devers in the first.
When asked Sunday whether the incident was in the rear-view mirror, Cora said: “It was closed (Saturday) around the sixth inning. We had our chance. It didn’t happen.”
In that sixth inning, Brayan Bello threw a pitch behind Judge’s legs.
Cora said he spoke with Judge and Yankees manager Aaron Boone after Saturday’s game.
“It was a good convo. I’ll kind of keep it at that,” said Judge, per MLB.com. “You play this game for a while, things like that happen. I know they’re upset that three of their guys got hit that day, and I think they’re just protecting their players.
“So, something’s got to happen, and that’s the way this game kind of gets policed. It’s been policed for over 100 years. So, I think the biggest thing is, just don’t miss when you do it.”
Boone denied Cole was throwing at Devers.
“First of all, I would say Gerrit was not throwing at him,” said Boone. “I have a lot of respect for Alex and think he’s great at what he does. I think it’s also a manager that’s using that moment a little bit to rally his troops a little bit as they’re fighting for their playoff lives.
“They’re playing for a lot over there, and I think this is an opportunity to galvanize them a little bit. I think (there is) probably a little gamesmanship to it.”
The Yankees lost Saturday’s game 7-1, but won three of four in the series and have a three-game lead on the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East.
The Red Sox are four games out of a wild-card spot.
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has reportedly escaped suspension for his recent comments about New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge. According to reports, Major League Baseball has decided not to discipline Cora for his remarks, which were made following a game between the Red Sox and Yankees.
During a post-game press conference, Cora expressed frustration with the umpiring in the game, specifically referencing a close call involving Judge. Cora suggested that Judge’s size and reputation as a power hitter may have influenced the umpire’s decision, leading to a favorable call for the Yankees.
While some viewed Cora’s comments as inflammatory and potentially inciting further tensions between the historic rivals, MLB ultimately determined that they did not warrant disciplinary action. This decision has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some questioning whether Cora’s remarks crossed a line or were simply part of the competitive nature of the sport.
Cora, who is in his second season as manager of the Red Sox, has a history of speaking candidly and passionately about the game. His comments about Judge are just the latest example of his willingness to speak his mind, even if it means ruffling feathers or drawing criticism from opposing teams and fans.
As the Red Sox continue their pursuit of a playoff spot and a potential World Series title, Cora’s ability to motivate and lead his team will be closely watched. While his comments about Judge may have caused a stir, it appears that MLB has decided to let the matter go without further punishment.
In the high-stakes world of professional baseball, where every game and every call can make a difference, managers like Cora must balance their passion for the game with the need to maintain professionalism and respect for their opponents. Whether or not Cora’s comments about Judge were appropriate, one thing is clear: his dedication to his team and his desire to win are unwavering.