With various Boston Red Sox players facing criticism for their COVID vaccination status, manager Alex Cora shared on how he feels it impacts the team.
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora faced some trouble with Toronto when he had to switch up the roster due to Canada’s vaccination laws. Cora seems to stay away from controversy and political debates, but he made a statement expressing how one’s decision impacts the entire team and organization.
According to Pete Abraham, Cora stated, “It’s what we do as an individual to take care of not only you, but your family, the group [of teammates] and the organization.”
Cora seems to have a vested interest in the welfare of the Red Sox organization as a whole, and it seems he wants his players to want the same thing.
How has COVID impacted the Boston Red Sox?
Recently, multiple Red Sox players tested positive for COVID, including starting catcher Christian Vázquez and backup catcher Kevin Plawecki. This puts the team in a difficult situation with having to maneuver around these players while they’re under quarantine. The roster shift will likely introduce players into new positions they aren’t prepared to play, which could be damaging to the team’s success.
The Red Sox are also facing difficulty in the upcoming series against Toronto due to the COVID vaccination status of various players. International travelers entering Canada must be fully vaccinated and be symptom-free. Unvaccinated players are unable to enter Canada, which creates another obstacle for roster management. Starting pitcher Tanner Houck, who is unvaccinated, is one of the players who will be missing the game series in Toronto.
“I think it’s a personal choice for everyone whether they get it or not. So, that’s all I really got to say on it. I’m definitely bummed that I won’t be able to make that start. But the starts that I am able to make, I plan on giving 100 percent for this team, if not moreso. Anything I can do for this team to help them win, I’ll do it.” -Tanner Houck, via Boston Globe
COVID has already impacted the Red Sox in many ways, and they could face a difficult season if it continues to influence their lineup.