This actually is a Porcello-like start. Give up a bunch of runs early and then settle down. Porcello also benefited from a lot of runs by the SOX when he started. Hopefully, the SOX can extend Richards the same courtesy.
He doesn't throw; he pitches. Too bad that 2nd HR off of E-rod couldn't have been charged to Cora. But, the players like playing for Cora, and, imho, that's Cora's biggest strength as a manager.
Usually, all teams have some weaknesses in their make-up, but LA doesn't appear to have any. If that team stays fairly healthy they will be an immovable object.