Report: Alex Cora really, really doesn’t want to manage the Phillies

Former Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has reportedly rejected an offer to manage the Philadelphia Phillies for a second time, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. Cora previously turned down the opportunity in April following Rob Thomson's firing. He reportedly plans to take the 2027 season off while remaining under contract with Boston, leaving Philadelphia to search elsewhere for their next manager.

Following Cora's rejection, the Phillies are considering naming interim manager Don Mattingly as their permanent manager, according to The Athletic. Mattingly led Philadelphia to a 79-55 record and an NL Wild Card berth. The organization faces urgency to resolve the managerial position ahead of an expected owner-imposed lockout beginning on December 1.