Alex Verdugo’s exchange with the Red Sox leadership team was lighthearted and informal (Report)
Alex Verdugo showed up to spring training in the best shape of his life. He is also telling everyone who’ll listen that he is due for a big year. On Monday, Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald reported that Verdugo approached the team’s leadership about an extension.
A full day has passed and there’s been some clarity to Verdugo’s request. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the conversation between Verdugo and the team’s decision makers was lighthearted and a more informal exchange.
The Arizona native has two years left before he’ll hit free agency. Verdugo wants to remain in Boston for the long haul.
Related: Alex Verdugo poised for a breakout year in 2023
The 26-year-old expressing desire in extension talks comes on the heels of manager Alex Cora calling him out for his performance at the conclusion of the 2022 season. Cora said that his energetic outfielder needed to take a big step forward in 2023.
The exchange between Verdugo and the front office and ownership was described to Cotillo as “Dugie being Dugie.”
Red Sox manager Alex Cora was asked about Verdugo during his 10 minute press conference with the media on Tuesday.
“He understands that it’s a big year,” Cora said. “I’m not saying he had a horrible year last year. He was actually really good towards the end. But there’s more there. This is a guy that people talked about him, a few years ago in the Dodgers organization, as a five-tool player. People go through stages and they learn. I do believe he learned his lesson last year. Like he said, he’s tired of people talking (expletive) about him. He’s going to put in work and go out there and play.”
As of Tuesday, Verdugo’s representatives have not approached the Red Sox on an extension, it’s also unknown if they will.
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