Boston Red Sox Manager Alex Cora Discusses Surprising Roster Decision
The Boston Red Sox made the difficult decision on Monday to designate outfielder Raimel Tapia for assignment.
This means that the Sox have seven days to trade, release, or outright him to the minors.
The move was surprising, given how well that Tapia has played this year in Boston. In 87 at-bats, he was hitting .264 with a homer, 10 RBI and six stolen bases. He also played valuable defense and was a good runner late in games.
On Monday, manager Alex Cora discussed the decision and why it was made:
"Tough one, right? He played so well for us but it's a trust in Jarren (Duran), right? Keep him around, hopefully Duvall will join us later in the week but Jarren will be here. He's part of this..."
There's a few things going on here...
1) It's a clear commitment to Duran. After up-and-down performances in 2021 and 2022, Duran has hit .280 in 42 games this year. He's hit three homers, driven in 22 and stolen seven bases. He's also under contract for several more years so the team sees value in playing him more and keeping him on the roster.
2) Adam Duvall's imminent return from a wrist injury complicated roster decisions. Duvall should be back before Friday's game against the Yankees and he's going to need time in the outfield, which further squeezes out Tapia.
Duvall is hitting .455 this season with four homers through 33 at-bats.
The Red Sox enter play on Monday at 30-29 overall and in last place in the American League East. They'll play the Rays on Monday at 4:05 p.m. ET.
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