Cora’s return tied to future of Lugo

BOSTON — If they had their choice, Sean Casey and Alex Cora both would like to play for the Red Sox again next season.

Those two, both free agents, were among the few players in the team clubhouse yesterday afternoon after the 5 a.m. arrival from Tampa.

“I love it here,” Cora said. “It’s something we’ve got to look at. … We’ll go through the right channels and see what happens.”

Cora, a favorite of manager Terry Francona and a potential manager-in-waiting, might not have control. If Julio Lugo returns, Cora could be out, since Jed Lowrie has established himself. If the Sox decide to deal Lugo, it likely would help Cora’s chances.

(projo.com)