A new revelation from head coach Alex Cora is adding to the regret of the Boston Red Sox fan community regarding one of the team’s biggest missed trades of the recent transfer window. Recalling the moment superstar Alex Bregman decided to leave Boston to join the Chicago Cubs, Cora shared a surprising behind-the-scenes story – and perhaps a memory many Red Sox fans will never forget.

In a recent interview, Cora admitted that he and the entire Red Sox organization were almost certain Bregman would return to the team. However, everything changed in just a few hours, turning a seemingly hopeful day into a moment where Boston had to face a harsh reality.

According to Cora, news of Bregman’s departure emerged precisely when the team was holding a fan meet-and-greet as part of Fenway Fest. The entire team was at an informal bowling event – ​​an annual event aimed at connecting players with fans.

No one in the room at the time thought that the big news of the transfer market would break out that very day.

“That day in Boston was really tough,” Cora recalled. “I thought he was coming back. Between Friday and Saturday, I really believed it would happen.”

But when the official news broke that Bregman had signed with the Chicago Cubs, the atmosphere at the event instantly changed.

“We were at a bowling event with the whole team, and then suddenly the news came out… and almost everyone left the building immediately,” Cora recounted with a strained smile.

That was the moment many in the Red Sox organization realized that a crucial plan of theirs had fallen apart.

Throughout the winter, the Red Sox reportedly worked hard to retain Bregman – one of MLB’s top offensive stars. However, the Chicago Cubs made a more attractive offer and ultimately persuaded him to sign a five-year contract worth approximately $175 million.

For Boston, losing a player of Bregman’s caliber was not only a professional blow but also significantly impacted their roster development plans. The Red Sox were forced to shift their strategy, quickly turning to other options in the market.

Just days later, the team signed pitcher Ranger Suárez and made further signings to fill gaps in the roster, including bringing in a new third-base player.

Even so, for many fans, the feeling of “almost getting” a major star remains unforgettable.

Notably, despite the failed trade, the relationship between Cora and Bregman remained largely unaffected. The two had known each other previously, as Cora had worked with the Houston Astros – where Bregman began his MLB career.

Cora maintained that Bregman’s decision was simply part of the business of professional sports.

“I think it’s more of a business matter,” Cora explained. “Alex has to do what’s best for himself and his career.”

Although there was some limited contact between them during the negotiation period, Cora stated that their personal relationship remains strong and they maintain mutual respect.

Following the shock trade, the Boston Red Sox shifted their focus to young talent and long-term plans. One of the highlights Cora recently mentioned is the maturation of the young players, especially those who are getting opportunities to play in international leagues and gain experience in a highly competitive environment.

In addition, the team must prepare for a fierce season in the AL East, where many strong teams are directly competing for a playoff spot.

Cora admitted that the upcoming season will not be easy, but he believes that the depth of the squad will help the Red Sox overcome the challenge.

Even though they are now in the preseason, the story of Bregman still leaves Boston fans feeling regretful. Not only because of the player’s talent, but also because of the feeling that the trade was so close to becoming a reality.

The moment at the bowling at Fenway Fest – when everyone in the room realized the big news had just come out – will probably become one of the strangest memories of the trade season.

And for many Red Sox fans, the story Alex Cora just revealed only makes them wonder: what would have happened if Bregman had actually chosen Boston?