What happened: The Boston Red Sox fired manager Alex Cora, who had nearly two years left on his deal, hitting coach Peter Fatse, bench coach Rámon Vazquez, game-planning coach Jason Varitek and third-base coach Kyle Hudson. Sources tell ESPN. The changes come less than a month into the 2026 MLB season.

Why it matters: Firing a manager with contract years remaining is rare early in the season and signals major internal turmoil. The overhaul could reshape strategy, lineup decisions and performance for the rest of the year. Betting lines for Red Sox games will adjust amid the uncertainty.

What to watch: Interim manager announcement and Red Sox response in next series are key to watch.