There are a number of interesting possibilities for the Red Sox to become the team’s new manager – including Alex Cora, Brad Ausmus, Ron Gardenhire and Jim Leyland.
Here is a look at most likely to least likely to become the next Red Sox manager.
Alex Cora – Cora was a TV broadcaster for ESPN and ESPN Deportes from 2013 to 2016 and didn’t even take an MLB coaching job until last November, when he became the bench coach for the Astros. He last played in 2011 with the Nationals and played with the Red Sox from 2005-08. Cora is still just 41-years-old and might be just what the doctor ordered for this particular Red Sox roster. The Sox seemed worn down from the 55-year-old Farrell this season and the clubhouse could use a jolt of youthful enthusiasm.
Brad Ausmus – Dombrowski hired Ausmus in November 2013. Ausmus was canned by the Tigers last month. When Dombrowski was fired in Detroit, Ausmus said the two had a strong working relationship.
“Dave was great with me, especially the last year,” Ausmus said in 2015. “He was very careful to make sure I had all the information I needed, in regards to any type of personnel moves or rules that go along with personnel moves. He always kept me informed. We spoke on pretty much a daily basis, even if he wasn’t on a road trip. Often on off days. So, Dave and I worked together well.”
Ron Gardenhire – Gardenhire managed the Twins from 2002-14, so people automatically assume he’s close to Leyland’s age. In actuality, Gardenhire is only 59. This is what the USA Today wrote on the Red Sox vacancy today, which is good news for Gardenhire if he wants the job: “They will interview the likes of Alex Cora, bench coach for the Houston Astros, but most likely will turn to an experienced man.”
The downside? Gardenhire’s last four years in Minnesota were the worst in Twins history and he had a playoff record of just 6-21.
Gape Kapler – Kapler had a chance to join Dave Roberts’ coaching staff (Kapler was up for the job Roberts eventually got), but declined – saying he was happy as the Dodgers’ director of player development instead.
Jason Varitek – Not happening. He has less managerial experience than Cora.
Jim Leyland – Leyland will be 73-years-old and hasn’t managed an MLB game since 2013. Despite the ties to Dombrowski, not happening.
