Red Sox Manager Cora Supports Hendriks Over Online Threats

BOSTON — Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks condemned online threats against him and his family on social media Thursday, prompting manager Alex Cora to express his support on Friday. The comments came before the first game of a doubleheader against Baltimore at Fenway Park.

Hendriks, who has faced significant challenges during his career, spoke out about the death threats following Boston’s recent loss to the New York Mets. On his platform, he stated, “Threats against my life and my wife’s life are horrible and cruel. … I think I speak for all players who have had to deal with this in their career when I say enough is enough.” Hendriks, who is in his second season with the Red Sox, has a 5.56 ERA this season.

Cora reflected on the pressure players face in the public eye, saying, “We’re in the public eye and people feel they have the right to say whatever they want. Sometimes, it comes from real people. Other times, it comes from burner accounts, fake people. It puts everyone in a tough spot.” He empathized with Hendriks and emphasized the need to protect players’ well-being.

Hendriks’ fight against non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and his missed 2023 season due to an elbow injury have brought further attention to his resilience. Cora also mentioned the societal issues that arise from sports gambling, linking it to fan anger directed at players. He stated, “A decision, a pitch, a play, it puts them in a bad spot and they take it personally. That’s not my fault. You have to be responsible with what you’re doing.” In a previous incident, Cora found himself facing social media backlash after attending his daughter’s graduation, which caused him to miss a game.

As tensions continue surrounding the intersection of sports and social media, Hendriks’ call for accountability resonates. Cora concluded by emphasizing the importance of support within the team and the responsibility of fans when engaging online.