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Red Sox manager Alex Cora ejected after argument over decision

Red Sox

“It hasn’t been this hot all year.”

Alex Cora is restrained by referee Alan Porter during Sunday's match. Winslow Townson/Getty Images

In the first inning of Sunday afternoon's game against the Twins, Red Sox manager Alex Cora didn't hold back as he told the umpires exactly what he thought about a decision.

With one out, Red Sox starter Nick Pivetta threw to second base to field Byron Buxton. Second baseman Vaughn Grissom attempted to quickly tag the ball and fell to the infield ground on his right knee.

Second base umpire Dan Merzel, who had been watching the game closely, initially declared Buxton safe.

Twins manager Rocco Baldelli argued that Grissom had pressed his knee to the ground. The umpires deliberated and ruled that Buxton should move to third base due to interference.

Cora came out of the dugout and went straight to umpire Alan Porter to make his case. Porter was not convinced. Then Cora's anger escalated as he challenged Merzel, sprinting to second base, pointing at his eyes and gesturing toward the base.

“He hasn't been this good all year,” said NESN spokesman Dave O'Brien.

Announcer Lou Merloni believed Cora was arguing that the second base umpire should not have allowed others to influence his decision. Once the decision was made, it should stand.

Cora charged at Merzel, so Porter held him back. It's safe to say he was thrown out.

Perhaps his message got across, because the Red Sox built up a convincing 6-0 lead in three innings.

This was his third ejection of the season. He is eligible to referee Game 2 on Sunday.

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