Report: Don't expect Sox to pursue Lindor despite Cora connection

Share

Alex Cora's return to Boston may open a few doors for the Red Sox. Just not that door.

After the Red Sox re-hired Cora as their manager Friday following his year-long suspension, some wondered if the team may seek a trade for Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor.

After all, the Puerto Rico native is close with Cora, who was his manager during the 2017 World Baseball Classic and also hails from the city of Caguas.

Tomase: These Sox players will benefit from Cora's return

But MLB Network's Jon Morosi poured cold water on the Lindor-to-Boston rumors Tuesday, reporting that chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom and his staff will focus on acquiring pitching instead.

Morosi's report isn't surprising. The Red Sox already have a franchise shortstop in Xander Bogaerts, and even if Bogaerts, Lindor or Rafael Devers agreed to switch positions to create a star-studded infield, Boston has a much more pressing need on the mound.

To that point, the Red Sox reportedly have expressed interest in right-hander Matt Shoemaker. Shoemaker certainly doesn't move the needle like Lindor, a four-time All-Star who's one of baseball's best all-around players at age 26.

Boston has money to spend after trading Mookie Betts and David Price last offseason, though, so it's possible they could pursue a bigger arm on the free-agent or trade markets.

Just don't expect Bloom to pony up at a position that's already one of his team's strengths.

Contact Us