BOSTON — With Alex Cora absent Monday to attend his daughter’s graduation from Boston College, Red Sox bench coach Ramón Vázquez will take over managerial duties for the game against the Mets at Fenway Park, scheduled for 6:45 p.m.
Vázquez, a key member of Cora’s staff since 2018, is no stranger to the role. He’s stepped in on seven occasions over the past two seasons following Cora’s ejections. His previous managerial experience includes leading the Lancaster JetHawks (a Houston Astros minor league affiliate) in 2016 and managing Criollos de Caguas in the Puerto Rican Winter League from 2020 to 2022.
“All my responsibilities remain the same,” Vázquez said. “The only difference — and I hope it doesn’t come to this — is that I might have to make a pitching change. Hopefully, everything runs smoothly. It’s just another regular day for me. Everyone’s preparing like usual — hitting, pitching, defense.”
As for who would take over if he were ejected?
“I honestly don’t know — but I’m planning on staying in the game,” he said with a laugh. “This is my first time managing here, and my kid is in the stands. So I’m just looking forward to a good night.”
Vázquez acknowledged that managing in Puerto Rico helped prepare him for high-pressure situations.
“The atmosphere there, especially during the playoffs, can get intense,” he said. “I’ve heard much worse from the stands than I’ll hear here — I think I’m ready for anything.”
Before the game, he and Cora discussed the plan.
“He walked me through his thoughts and what to keep an eye on,” Vázquez said. “I’ve already spoken with the rest of the staff, and we’ve had our usual pre-series meetings. Everything should go smoothly.”
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