Alex Cora's Red Sox managerial career is off to a great start. The team is 5-1 heading into its home opener Thursday and has squeaked out several one-run and extra-inning wins through the first week of the season.
As a result, Cora hasn't faced a lot of media scrutiny yet. But he still expects to be challenged. In his weekly interview Wednesday with Dale & Keefe, Cora talked about how media responsibilities are the biggest difference between being a bench coach and big league manager.
"I'm the spokesman of the team," Cora said. "Before and after the game, people are going to ask me questions, and you have to answer. That's different. But last year, I had a good relationship with A.J. (Hinch). Yeah, he made the last decisions, but I was part of the decision process. It's the same thing here. Ron Roenicke and Dana LaVangie have been helping me out throughout the game. We're mapping these games out as a town, and I feel they're making me better. They're going to help me out through the process. I'm a rookie manager, it's my first time managing, and I feel that I surround myself with great people who know what they're doing, and they're helping me out."
Cora's experience in Boston as a player also helps in this regard. In addition to understanding the press' obligations, he also acknowledges the importance of keeping things light over a long 162-game season.
"I'm sarcastic, and it's a part of the equation. If you don't have fun with your job, it becomes a grind," he explained. "I understand how it works. I was part of it. Talking to people that work with me at ESPN, they were preparing me for this. I get it. I know there are going to be good days, bad days and horrible days. But as long as I stay within myself, I am who I am. Nobody is going to change that. I understand I'm the spokesman, people want to have information about the team and what happens here on a daily basis. That's my job."
The one issue that's plagued the Red Sox through the first week of the season has been their proclivity for running into outs on the base paths –– much like last year. Cora said he understands the team must be crisper on the bases if it wants to be a legitimate contender.
