Boston-area sports station WEEI has indicated through a high level source, that the Boston Red Sox won't begin their search for a new manager until after Theo Epstein has made his decision on where he'll be next year.
The decision comes amid the rumors that Epstein was in Chicago over the weekend to interview with the Cubs for their vacant GM position. It's expected that Epstein would have significant input on who would be replacing outgoing manager Terry Francona next season.
It was widely reported that the Chicago Cubs had indeed asked for permission to speak with Epstein about their position, but Sox ownership remained cryptic on the subject, and wouldn't indicate one way or the other whether they had granted the Cubs wish.
Terry Francona and the Sox agreed to part ways two weeks ago after eight years together that saw the team bring home two World Series trophies and make three ALCS appearances.