Alex Cora to be new bench coach for Astros

The Houston Astros have hired Alex Cora as their new bench coach, sources confirmed to ESPN on Tuesday. The Astros later took to Twitter to announce the news.

Cora, who had been serving as an analyst for ESPN, replaces Trey Hillman on an Astros staff led by manager A.J. Hinch.

The story was first reported by Fox Sports.

The 41-year-old Puerto Rico native, known more for his glove than his bat, last played for the Washington Nationals in 2011. He also was a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and Texas Rangers throughout a 14-year career that saw him compile a .243/.310/.338 slash line.

Cora reportedly interviewed for several open manager positions over the past few seasons, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, San Diego Padres, Miami Marlins and Washington Nationals.