MLB Week-in-Review: Alex Cora emerges as managerial candidate

Cora could be the next former player to be hired to manage. Plus notes on qualifying offers and Daniel Murphy's chances of re-signing with the Mets.

By Scott Gelman Oct 18, 2015, 7:36pm EDT

Alex Cora could be hired to manage while Chase Utley's slide was evaluated throughout the game.

MLB Top Headlines:

Chase Utley suspended for slide

MLB decided to suspend Utley, who injured Miguel Tejada on a slide.

Pittsburgh wants to re-sign J.A. Happ

Although the 2015 campaign did not start well for Happ, he pitched well after being dealt to the Pirates. Happ reportedly has interest in remaining with the Pirates, which means a deal might get done quickly.

Daniel Murphy could receive $40 million this winter

Murphy is expected to receive a qualifying offer this winter, but if he opts to explore other options via free agency, he could receive a deal worth up to $40 million.

Padres, Nationals interview Alex Cora

Cora is currently serving as an analyst with ESPN, but he would likely leave the network to manage. He is considered a strong candidate after an extensive major league career.

Nationals interested in Bud Black

Black could become the next manager of the Nationals. However, Phil Nevin and Ron Gardenhire are also candidates for the job.

Brandon Beachy elects free agency

Beachy has undergone Tommy John surgery twice in his career and will now be searching for a new team this winter.

Jose Bautista's bat flip was 'baseball at its best'

Bautista flipped his bat after hitting a home run. Some did not like it. Others loved it.

Yadier Molina set for surgery

Molina will have surgery on his thumb, but he is expected to be completely healthy by the time spring training begins.

Zack Greinke 'will opt out' of his contract

Greinke could still remain in Los Angeles, but he will likely request a large deal this off-season.

Addison Russell out for NLCS

Russell will be out for the series with a mild hamstring strain.

Adrian Beltre played through thumb injury

Beltre played the entire second half of the season and the postseason with an injured thumb.

These players are expected to receive qualifying offers

All it means is a draft pick if the player signs with a new club.