Francona the free agent?

[love_that_reefer]

Red Sox, Francona Expected To Part Ways: MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com

Looks like Francona wants to move on from Red Sox nation and after Epstein's comments about changes needing to be made, I don't blame him. He probably knew his time was up and is beating the Red Sox to the punch. Smart move actually. I expect the White Sox and Nationals to be heavy bidders for Francona's services.

[cjkalt]

Yet Theo said it wasn't Tito's fault... there is a reason Tito didn't take the extension given at the beginning of the year... I wouldn't blame this on Red Sox general management, I think he wants a new challenge... 7 years is a long time in the manager business and I can't blame him for wanting a new challenge...

I'd also add the Cubs to that list as well

[Trendy Bastard]

As would I. Heavily depends on the new GM though.

[Tobywan]

I'm reading conflicting things, that Tito wouldn't have accepted the option if picked up/ the team absolutely had no intention of picking it up/ that they are the main ones wanting to part / that Tito has wanted to leave.

Tito supposedly didn't like the atmosphere of the clubhouse/ that the front office didn't like the way the clubhouse was handled.

Tito says there may be more to talk about, Theo says it isn't Francona's fault and John Henry says nothing.


I wouldn't be surprised if the Chisox land him, he is a former minor league manager for them and they might welcome a more calm hand after the storm trooper.

[love_that_reefer]

Why does everyone call him Tito? I thought that was his father's name.

[zodious]

BREAKING NEWS:

RED SOX/FRANCONA PARTING WAYS

Terry Francona, Boston Red Sox part ways after two titles - ESPN Boston

[Kingdom]

Braves fired Parrish, Angels let their GM go and Francona is leaving. Woohoo, drama

[realmofotalk]

Boston Red Sox - Ignore the spin - the Red Sox fired Terry Francona - The Boston Globe

[love_that_reefer]

Per Buster Olney:

All speculation, but if I were in Theo's shoes, some managerial candidates I'd ask for permission to speak to: Bochy; Wedge; Pete Mackanin.

Remember, Bochy doesn't have a long-term deal with SF, and Theo knows him from their days in SD. Would be perfect for the job.(Speculation.)

Pretty much a no-BS person. Engenders respect from players; handles media well; great game manager.

And, of course, the X-factor in all this is we don't even know if Theo will be the Boston GM in a month, with Cubs' situation looming.

If there is a god, let this happen!!!

[Trendy Bastard]

There's also a ton of speculation of Epstein leaving Boston.

[love_that_reefer]

I would take both over Sabean and Bochy