Alex Cora says he applauds MLB for pulling the All-Star Game from suburban Atlanta, due to Georgia’s restrictive new voting law. The Red Sox skipper expressed his support for the monumental move in a New York Times article about the enhanced political activism across pro sports.
"Throughout the year, there’s been a lot of things going on not only with the pandemic but as a society,” Cora said. “They moved it for the right reasons.”
In a statement released Friday, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said Georgia’s new voting restrictions are antithetical to the sport’s values. The law places limitations on mail-in voting, among other measures. It is one of at least 250 anti-voting bills proposed by Republicans that are currently circulating around state legislatures.
"Over the last week, we have engaged in thoughtful conversations with Clubs, former and current players, the Players Association, and The Players Alliance, among others, to listen to their views," Manfred said. ”I have decided that the best way to demonstrate our values as a sport is by relocating this year's All-Star Game and MLB Draft.”
The Braves released their own statement, expressing their disappointment in the decision. Georgia governor Brian Kemp also admonished MLB, along with former President Donald Trump and scores of Republicans. Trump continues to falsely claim he lost the election due to widespread voter fraud.
While sports leagues have taken political stances before — the NFL once threatened to pull future Super Bowls from Atlanta if Georgia’s then-governor signed an anti-LGBTQ bill — it’s notable for the traditionally conservative MLB to take progressive political stands.
But increasingly, more figures across MLB are speaking out, including Cora. He boycotted the Red Sox’ White House visit in 2019, citing Trump’s derogatory comments about Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, along with his administration's failed response.
Cora is the second member of the Red Sox to publicly back MLB’s newfound activism. On Friday, the club’s newest owner also weighed in. “Proud to call myself a part of the @mlb family today,” LeBron James tweeted.
