The anticipated appointment of Alex Cora as the Philadelphia Phillies’ next manager will not be happening. Cora, the former Boston Red Sox manager, has withdrawn his name from consideration and plans to spend the upcoming season with his family. Despite having a contract with the Red Sox through next year, he is opting for a mid-career break, confident that managerial opportunities will be available when he returns in 2028.
Dave Dombrowski, the Phillies’ lead executive who previously hired Cora in Boston and shares a close relationship with him, confirmed that he reached out to Cora in April following the dismissal of Rob Thomson. However, Cora declined the offer then and again this offseason. As a result, the Phillies now face a decision between retaining interim manager Don Mattingly—who led the team to a 79-55 record and a wild-card spot after taking over from Thomson—or seeking a new manager externally. Here is a look at some contenders in the post-Cora managerial market:
The Interim
Don Mattingly: With MLB’s anticipated player lockout starting December 1, which will halt team interactions and shorten spring training, hiring a new manager this offseason poses challenges. Mattingly, 65, already has established relationships with Phillies players, which is crucial since building trust and rapport is a major part of the managerial role. His familiarity with the clubhouse could work in his favor for a permanent position.
Former Managers
Rocco Baldelli: Serving currently as a special assistant with the , Baldelli managed the Twins from 2019-25, winning four AL Central titles and making three playoff appearances. Known for excellent communication and leadership in the clubhouse, Baldelli blends playing and managing experience, which is key in modern baseball beyond strategy alone.
David Ross: After being released by the Cubs three years ago—who hired Craig Counsell—Ross, 49, has been eager to return to managing. He led Chicago from 2020-23 with one postseason appearance and checks the popular “former catcher” box. Having worked as a broadcaster, Ross is adept at handling media demands in a big-market setting.
Up-and-Coming Candidates
Rodney Linares: Linares has been the Rays bench coach since 2023 and has a long history managing and coaching in the minors, mainly with the Astros. He also led the Dominican Republic team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and comes from a baseball family, positioning himself as a promising managerial prospect with strong analytical and development credentials.
George Lombard Sr.: A former MLB player active between 1999-2006, Lombard transitioned to coaching in 2010, with experience spanning the Red Sox, Braves, , and currently serving as the Tigers’ bench coach. His blend of playing experience and development expertise make him a solid candidate, with a family legacy continuing through his sons in the sport.
Hall of Fame-Related Names
Carlos Beltrán: Beltrán briefly managed the Mets but resigned amid the Astros sign-stealing controversy. Now a special assistant in the Mets front office, he was once heavily considered for the Mets managerial role. He remains a strong managerial candidate and could potentially get another chance with the NL East rival Phillies.
Albert Pujols: Though not yet in the Hall of Fame, Pujols is expected to be a first-ballot inductee upon eligibility in 2028. He has no major league managerial experience but has led a Dominican Winter League team to a Caribbean Series win and managed the Dominican Republic in the latest World Baseball Classic. Pujols has interviewed for MLB managerial positions and could bring immediate respect and leadership to a seasoned Phillies roster.
Fan Take: This development is significant for baseball fans because it signals a period of uncertainty and opportunity for the Phillies as they search for a manager who can stabilize and elevate the team’s performance. It highlights the growing complexity of managerial roles in today’s game, which blend strategic expertise with the ability to build strong player relationships in a changing baseball landscape.
Source: www.cbssports.com
