Alex Cora Reveals Funny Off-Field Indicator Of Red Sox’s Success

The Boston Red Sox are in a healthy spot, entering a pivotal series against the New York Yankees with an 81-66 record and four-game lead in the American League Wild Card standings. Alex Cora noted another barometer that things are good in Boston.

Before Friday’s game at Fenway Park, per WEEI’s Tom Carroll, Cora recalled a meal at Legal Sea Foods that showcased positive vibes around the team.

“It was cool. For the first time in months, two people offered to pay the check,” Cora said. “I was like, wow. This is going well.”

Cora also felt the love when he went to the Seaport District with Red Sox coaches and team president Sam Kennedy.

“You can tell that everybody’s excited about the team, the weekend,” Cora added. “Hopefully, we can come through.”

Cora’s club has given Red Sox fans ample reasons for excitement. They entered Independence Day at 43-45 before winning 10 straight before the All-Star break.

Boston has extended that momentum with a 28-21 record in the second half. The Red Sox have navigated a demanding schedule to take two of three from the Los Angeles Dodgers and sweep the Yankees and Astros this summer.

ESPN gives Boston a 95.1 percent chance to make the playoffs before Friday’s game. Even if they don’t catch the Toronto Blue Jays to win the AL East, the Red Sox can regain home-field advantage in a first-round playoff matchup by winning two or three games over the Yankees in their final series of the regular season.

Cora signed a three-year, $21.75 million extension during the 2024 season, so maybe he should be the one offering to pick up the tab. But fans may remain in a generous mood if the Red Sox have another strong showing against their division nemesis this weekend.