Left-handed starter Eduardo Rodriguez, sixth in AL Cy Young voting in 2019, did not play in the shortened 2020 season after a brutal bout with COVID-19.

As Boston rebuilds, particularly its pitching staff, Alex Cora’s history with players could impact who is willing to come to Boston.

Alex Cora is eager to prove he is worthy of his second chance to direct the team he led to a World Series title in 2018.

Chaim Bloom did his due diligence with all of Boston’s managerial candidates – including Alex Cora – before making his decision.

Cora led Boston to the World Series championship in 2018, but left the team in January and then was suspended for his role in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal.

Former manager Alex Cora and ex-Rays player Sam Fuld are reportedly the top two candidates being considered by the Red Sox.

Designated hitter J.D. Martinez exercises the option on a contract that will pay him $19.375 million each of the next two seasons.

Granted, Boston has more money to spend than Tampa Bay, but Chaim Bloom will take the same approach with the Red Sox that he learned while with the Rays.

Bench coach Jerry Narron, bullpen coach Craig Bjornson are not retained for Boston, which is still looking for a manager after parting ways with Ron Roenicke.