As the Boston Red Sox prepare for manager Chad Tracy’s first full season at the helm in 2027, the organization has confirmed that José David Flores will continue in his role as bench coach. Flores, who served as interim bench coach during the 2026 season, previously held the position of first base coach under former manager Alex Cora and was also Tracy’s bench coach with Triple-A Worcester from 2022 to 2024.
Several other coaching changes have also been announced. Chad Epperson, who spent much of the past season coaching third base at the major league level, will return to the minors to manage the Worcester Red Sox next year. Meanwhile, Pablo Cabrera, who acted as the interim first base coach and outfield instructor during 2026, is set to resume his role as defensive coordinator within the Red Sox farm system.
These adjustments leave at least two positions open on Tracy’s major league coaching staff for the upcoming season. The future of three other interim staff members remains uncertain: Collin Hetzler and Nelson Paulino, both interim hitting coaches promoted from the minor leagues, along with Drew Ehrhard, who transitioned from a Double-A playing career to serve as interim bullpen catcher.
Additionally, Iggy Suarez, who shifted from Triple-A defensive coach to interim manager during Tracy’s absence, will take on the role of bench coach for Worcester, working under Epperson’s management.
As the Red Sox finalize their coaching lineup, these moves highlight the organization’s focus on maintaining continuity while also leveraging its minor league talent to support player development and the major league roster.
