The Boston Red Sox and manager Alex Cora "mutually agreed to part ways" amid a sign-stealing scandal that saw the Houston Astros fire their general manager and manager earlier in the week. Cora, who helped lead the Red Sox to a World Series championship in his first year as manager in 2018, is under investigation for reportedly using cameras to steal signs from the opposing teams' catchers and relaying pitches to the hitters.
Major League Baseball found that Cora was involved in developing a plan to steal signs while he was with the Astros in 2017, and is investigating claims he concocted a similar scheme while manager of the Red Sox the following year. Commissioner Rob Manfred said that the league decided to hold off on punishing Cora until the investigation into Red Sox is complete.
"We agreed today that parting ways was the best thing for the organization," Cora said in a statement. "I do not want to be a distraction to the Red Sox as they move forward. My two years as manager were the best years of my life. It was an honor to manage these teams and help bring a World Series Championship back to Boston."
The Red Sox issued a statement thanking Cora for his time in Boston.
"This is a sad day for us," owner John Henry, chairman Tom Werner, and CEO Sam Kennedy said in a joint statement. "Alex is a special person and a beloved member of the Red Sox. We are grateful for his impact on our franchise. We will miss his passion, his energy, and his significant contributions to the communities of New England and Puerto Rico."
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