Let’s start with a key point: Despite their current challenges, the New York Yankees have a solid 55-37 record, occupy the top wild-card spot, and Fangraphs gives them a 98% chance of making the playoffs.
However, there are growing concerns that this season might mirror 2023, when they finished 82-80, missed the playoffs, and faced intense criticism of manager Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman.
If these concerns lead to a disappointing end to the season—such as an early playoff exit—could Boone’s tenure as manager come to an end? Moreover, could the Yankees consider pursuing Alex Cora, the Boston Red Sox manager who is not yet signed for next season?
Cora, who has demonstrated himself as one of the best managers in the game with a 489-410 career record, including a World Series title and two playoff appearances, is currently signed only through the end of the season.
With the Red Sox performing better than expected this year, Cora’s future remains uncertain as he evaluates his next steps. The Cubs’ recent hiring of Craig Counsell for a five-year, $40 million contract highlights the financial potential for top managerial candidates.
Boone, with a 564-398 record over six-plus seasons and five playoff appearances, including an ALCS run in 2019, has yet to secure a World Series title for the Yankees.
The prevailing sentiment in the industry, according to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, is that Cora might not return to Boston and could become a sought-after candidate in managerial free agency. Could the Yankees be the team to make a move for him?
