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Red Sox manager Alex Cora spoke with 98.5 The Sports Hub’s Tony Massarotti for a new Baseball Hour podcast, discussing a number of topics heading into the 2022 baseball season.
When asked about his biggest concern about the Red Sox ahead of Opening Day, Cora said the bullpen. But he explained that it’s more of a league-wide problem than one specific to Boston. Cora feels that bullpens across baseball are lagging behind position players and starting pitchers in their preparation for the 2022 season, due to a lockout-shortened spring training period.
“We do believe that the starters are OK, the position players are good. Our bullpen right now, stuff-wise, is behind,” Cora said. “And probably, there’s 29 more teams that they’re behind bullpen-wise … obviously there’s a few guys that they’re throwing the ball well, but I do believe, and this is around the league … it feels like the relievers are one week behind in their progression. They still have some catch-up to do.
“That’s my biggest concern. Not because of the personnel, I think we have some really interesting arms that are going to do the job. But going into the season, I do believe we’re one week behind. And it’s not lack of preparation, it’s just what happened. It was a shorter spring training, and I think the relievers are the ones paying the price right now.”
Cora also discussed the continued development of Rafael Devers, the Red Sox’ offensive strategy, and the team’s new faces on the starting pitching staff. You can listen to the podcast above for the full interview, and subscribe to The Baseball Hour podcast here.
Matt Dolloff is a writer and podcaster for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Yell at him on Twitter @mattdolloff and follow him on Instagram @mattydsays. You can also email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.
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