Alex Cora talks about what Dustin Pedroia’s future with the Red Sox could look like and if managing is in the former second baseman’s future.
Could Dustin Pedroia one day succeed Alex Cora as the manager of the Boston Red Sox?
It isn't the craziest idea. After all, the former Red Sox second baseman was a leader in the Red Sox clubhouse for 14 years and remains a beloved figure in the organization.
Ahead of Pedroia's retirement ceremony Friday, Cora was asked what he thought about the Laser Show potentially becoming the Sox skipper someday.
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Tomase: Why the Pedroia Hall of Fame discussion is difficult to have
"I think it's too soon to start talking about [Pedroia managing one day], because he is in a stage that obviously his career didn't end up the way he wanted," Cora said. "It was frustrating toward the end. And now he's enjoying his life again, which is very important.
"He's a part of the Red Sox organization. Obviously, his role I think would be probably bigger in the upcoming years whenever he wants to. If he wants to manage the Red Sox, hey, I don't mind that in a few years. I really don't. ... If he wants to do it in a few years, I'll be like a senior advisor. We'll make a new job description. I can help him from afar, I still get paid more than him, but he can do it if he wants to."
Pedroia recently indicated he'd be open to managing at some point, but his primary focus for the foreseeable future is spending time with his family.
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The 37-year-old earned two World Series titles, three All-Star selections, four Gold Gloves, a Rookie of the Year award during his illustrious career. Perhaps one day he'll add a Manager of the Year trophy to his collection.
Pedroia's retirement ceremony at Fenway Park is set to take place at 6:30 p.m. ET.