In a recent development that has sent ripples through the baseball community, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora made candid remarks suggesting that his team intentionally threw at New York Yankees star Aaron Judge. This revelation has reignited discussions about the unwritten rules of baseball and the ethics of on-field retaliation.
The incident in question occurred during a game where Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole hit Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers with a pitch. Cora perceived this action as deliberate, especially after Cole later issued an intentional walk to Devers, indicating a desire to avoid facing the formidable hitter. In response, Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello delivered a pitch behind Judge’s legs in the sixth inning, which many interpreted as a retaliatory move. Although the pitch did not make contact, it was a clear message.
Following the game, Cora addressed the situation, stating, “It was closed [Saturday] around the sixth inning. We had our chance. It didn’t happen.” This comment was widely interpreted as an acknowledgment of the intentional nature of Bello’s pitch towards Judge. Cora also mentioned having a “professional” conversation with Judge after the game, indicating that both parties considered the matter settled.
Judge, reflecting on the incident, remarked, “You play this game for a while, things like that happen. I know they’re upset. I think three of their guys got hit that day. I think they’re just protecting their players. Something’s gotta … .” He added, “I think the biggest thing is, … .”
Major League Baseball (MLB) took note of Cora’s comments and initiated an investigation to determine if there was any violation of league policies. After a thorough review, MLB decided not to suspend Cora, concluding that no actionable offense had occurred. This decision underscores the league’s recognition of the complex nature of on-field dynamics and the traditional codes that have long governed player interactions.
This incident is not the first time Cora has been at the center of controversy. In 2020, he was implicated in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal during his tenure as the team’s bench coach in 2017. The scandal led to significant repercussions, including the suspension and subsequent firing of key personnel. Cora and the Red Sox mutually agreed to part ways in January 2020, but he was rehired as the team’s manager in November 2020 after serving a suspension.
The recent events have reignited debates about the unwritten rules of baseball, particularly the practice of retaliatory pitches. While some argue that such actions are a traditional method of maintaining respect and order on the field, others contend that they pose unnecessary risks to player safety and undermine the integrity of the game.
Cora’s forthrightness in addressing the situation has been both lauded and criticized. Supporters appreciate his transparency and willingness to uphold team solidarity, while detractors express concern over the endorsement of potentially dangerous on-field behavior.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how this incident will influence the dynamics between the Red Sox and the Yankees, as well as the broader discourse on sportsmanship and the unwritten codes that have long been a part of baseball’s fabric. One thing is certain: Alex Cora’s comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the balance between tradition and safety in America’s pastime.
