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Boston Red Sox Shake Things Up: Cora Warns of Tough Roster Decisions That Could Divide the Clubhouse
As the Boston Red Sox gear up for the 2025 MLB season, manager Alex Cora has made it clear that the team is undergoing significant changes—ones that might not sit well with everyone in the clubhouse. In a recent statement, Cora acknowledged that some of the lineup decisions coming in the next few weeks will likely “upset” certain players, hinting at a brewing tension within the team
Red Sox Prioritize Experience Over Youth
After a disappointing 2024 campaign, Boston has reshaped its roster by adding several proven veterans. The arrival of star infielder Alex Bregman, ace pitcher Walker Buehler, and reliever Garrett Crochet has brought much-needed leadership to a team that Cora believes lacked maturity last season. “Last year, we had a lot of kids in the clubhouse that didn’t know what it takes to win,” Cora admitted. “Now, we’ve got adults in the room”
The shift in philosophy signals Boston’s intent to compete immediately, but it also raises questions about how existing players will fit into this new structure.
Devers vs. Bregman: A Third-Base Dilemma?
One of the biggest decisions facing Cora is how to handle third base. Boston already has Rafael Devers, an offensive powerhouse, locked into a long-term deal. However, with the addition of Bregman—an elite defender and a proven postseason performer—the infield dynamics have become uncertain.
Devers has struggled defensively at third, and some analysts believe the best move for Boston would be shifting him to designated hitter. But the 27-year-old slugger has made it clear that he has no interest in giving up his spot in the field. Meanwhile, Bregman has expressed a willingness to move around if necessary, even suggesting he could play second base.
“It’s early to decide who is going to be where,” Cora said. “Decisions will be made in a few weeks, and there’s going to be people upset. But that’s the good thing about having good players”
Garrett Whitlock’s New Role Sparks Debate
While the Red Sox have upgraded their roster in multiple areas, they are also relying on a comeback from right-hander Garrett Whitlock. The 28-year-old hasn’t pitched in nearly a year after undergoing elbow surgery, but Cora has insisted he will be ready for Opening Day.
What’s different this time? Whitlock will no longer be used as a starting pitcher. Instead, he will return to his original bullpen role, where he found success in 2021. “We’re not going to play with the Whitlock thing,” Cora stated. “He’s going to be a reliever”
Boston’s bullpen needed reinforcements after closer Kenley Jansen’s inconsistent 2024 campaign. The Red Sox are also hoping for a resurgence from Liam Hendriks, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. If Whitlock can return to his pre-injury form, he could be a critical weapon in the late innings.
Pitching Rotation Takes Shape
With Whitlock no longer in the mix as a starter, Boston has solidified a six-man rotation that features Walker Buehler, Brayan Bello, Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, and Lucas Giolito. The Red Sox are hoping that Buehler, a two-time All-Star, can return to his dominant form after missing most of last season due to injury. Meanwhile, Giolito’s health remains a question mark after he exited his spring training debut early
Red Sox Nation is already buzzing about Cora’s recent statements, with fans split on whether he is making the right moves. Some argue that shifting Devers to DH makes sense for the team’s long-term success, while others believe taking him out of the field could hurt his confidence.
Likewise, the decision to make Whitlock a full-time reliever has drawn mixed reactions. Some supporters see it as a smart way to preserve his arm, while others feel Boston is wasting a pitcher with starting potential.
