Celtics' Joe Mazzulla Reacts to Red Sox Firing Alex Cora
From one Boston coach to another, it was only fitting that prior to the Boston Celtics' playoff game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday night, head coach Joe Mazzulla was asked about the recent firing of Alex Cora.
Cora spent eight seasons as manager of the Boston Red Sox, and following a sluggish start to the season, the organization decided it was time to move on.
Still, Mazzulla - now in his fourth season with Boston - made it clear he has a great deal of respect for Cora and what he accomplished during his tenure.
"He's great," Mazzulla said. "I think he does a great job building relationships with the players, navigating the ebbs and flows of a long season, and staying even-keeled. I'm grateful that I've gotten to learn from him. Wherever he goes, I know he'll be good."
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Cora was in the second year of a three-year extension worth over $20 million, but the Red Sox stumbled out to a 10-17 start under his leadership this season.
Red Sox owner John Henry released a statement on the decision to part ways with Cora on Saturday night.
"Alex Cora led this organization to one of the greatest seasons in Red Sox history in 2018, and for that, and the many years that followed, he will always have our deepest gratitude," Henry said. "He has had a lasting impact on this team and on this city. He has led on and off the field in so many important ways. These decisions are never easy, but this one is especially difficult given what Alex has meant to the Red Sox since the day he arrived.
"I want to thank Alex, our coaches, and their families for everything they have given to this organization. They have been part of this club in a way that goes beyond the field, and they will always have our respect and gratitude."
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This story was originally published April 26, 2026 at 7:26 PM.