Those employed in the world of Major League Baseball are generally happy any time a player signs even a semi-historic contract.
But when Francisco Lindor agreed to his 10-year, $341 million deal with the Mets, it meant something more to Red Sox manager Alex Cora.
Cora and Lindor were both born in the Puerto Rican city of Caguas, having befriended each other throughout the years. So on the day it was officially announced the 27-year-old shortstop was getting his new contract from the Mets, the Red Sox manager made sure a proper tribute was made.
For his Zoom meeting with the media Thursday, Cora broke out his "Lindor 1's", the footwear line released by New Balance in early March.
"I’m wearing them in honor of Francisco," Cora said. "First things first, as a kid, as an individual, as a friend, very proud of him. He worked so hard to get to this point. From his decision to leave Puerto Rico to go to Orlando to get his education in high school and be able to play high school baseball, it’s not easy and for him to accomplish this is amazing.
"I do believe he’s a perfect fit in big market teams and his personality is going to take over. Obviously, he did an amazing job with Cleveland but I think we all knew something like this was going to happen either now in a trade or next year as a free agent. He’s a guy who lives, enjoys and brings the best out of people. When you’re around him there is a vibe that he brings. Emotion and the love for the game and the passion. This kid is one of my favorites, not only as a player but as a player. Always asking for my family ‘How are you doing?’ One of the few kids that stayed throughout the whole process last year. I’m very proud of him. Happy for Zack (Scott) that he was able to pull this off. I think they’re going to enjoy it. And knowing how it works in that market, they’ve been getting a lot of positive news the last 12 months and I think this is the icing on the cake. I’m very proud of him. I’m very happy for him. On a personal note, I’m glad they got the deal done. It wasn’t easy. It looked dark for a few days but I think both of them, they realized they need each other. I’m looking forward to competing with him this year and see him perform."