A day after missing the Red Sox’ win over the Mets to attend his daughter’s graduation at Boston College manager Alex Cora defended his decision and fired back at talk radio critics.

This grim situation at first has forced Boston’s hand and now has its starting second baseman, rookie Kristian Campbell, taking practice reps at first base. Despite his incredible athleticism and team-first mentality, it might be a while until the Red Sox see Campbell there regularly.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora says he will miss Monday’s series opener against the New York Mets at Fenway Park so he can attend his daughter’s college graduation.