Daily Red Sox Links: Alex Cora, Matt Barnes, Andrew Benintendi

Alex Cora sat down (virtually, at least) with the media on Thursday to discuss a variety of topics. And while the manager was optimistic on some fronts, he did acknowledge that this team needs some reinforcements. (Alex Speier; Boston Globe)

In that press conference, Cora also mentioned that he would like the Red Sox to be more athletic in 2021. That sounds good, of course, but what does it actually mean? (Rob Bradford; WEEI)

When talking about the rotation, Cora didn’t really commit to anything but the idea of a six-man rotation at least wasn’t shut down completely. (Sean McAdam; Boston Sports Journal)

Over in the bullpen, meanwhile, Cora acknowledged that new additions could come in, but if the season were to start today he’d be comfortable with Matt Barnes as his closer. (Chris Cotillo; Masslive)

Whether Barnes is the closer or not is sort of besides the point, though. The bullpen needs help. (Jen McCaffrey; The Athletic)

Can Cora work to fix Andrew Benintendi again? (John Tomase; NBC Sports Boston)