'Duh, of course [we] talk to that guy': Alex Cora discusses Red Sox' recent track record of 'interest' in acquiring players

"The Red Sox are one of two MLB teams that have yet to sign a free agent to a major league contract, with the Colorado Rockies being the other. However, Boston has reportedly shown interest in signing several free agents since the end of its season nearly three months ago. Some players have already signed, such as first baseman Pete Alonso with the Baltimore Orioles. Others the Red Sox have been linked to, like shortstop Bo Bichette, remain available."

"While some fans view this repeated interest without much to show for it as a negative, manager Alex Cora doesn't seem to feel that way. "It's the whole thing about, 'They show interest.' We better!" Cora said on the "Baseball Isn't Boring" podcast. "Every team has to talk to players because if you don't do that, then you're being irresponsible. It doesn't mean that that's the number one option, but you never know what can happen.""

The Red Sox remain one of two MLB teams without a signed free agent to a major league contract, while they have reportedly contacted multiple available players since their season ended. Some targeted players have already signed elsewhere, and notable targets like Bo Bichette remain available. Repeated links to top free agents alongside relatively few free-agent signings have produced the "interest kings" label among fans. The club has been active in trades, exemplified by sending Sonny Gray for two young pitchers. Manager Alex Cora frames contacting players as responsible due diligence, and the free-agent period can still produce late agreements.

Read at Boston.com