The popular Red Sox second baseman has played nine big league games over the past three seasons. It appears time to give up the roster spot.

Alex Cora is eager to prove he is worthy of his second chance to direct the team he led to a World Series title in 2018.

Chaim Bloom did his due diligence with all of Boston’s managerial candidates — including Alex Cora — before making his decision.

The Red Sox, thankfully, are more forgiving than social media, and rehire a qualified manager.

Cora led Boston to the World Series championship in 2018, but left the team in January and then was suspended for his role in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal.

Designated hitter J.D. Martinez exercises the option on a contract that will pay him $19.375 million each of the next two seasons.

A pandemic-caused decrease in revenues means baseball’s free agents can expect less of a payday, meaning Boston could find some affordable treasures.