The Boston Red Sox "intend to pick up" Terry Francona's two-year option following this season, ensuring the manager will be in place through the 2013 season, this according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman. When reached for comment, Francona said, "I know nothing about their decision."
Francona was given a three-year extension before the 2008 season, taking him through this year. Heyman tweeted the option is worth a total of $9 million ($4.5 each season), while NESN has it at $8.75 million. He is due to make $4 million in 2011, his eighth season in Boston.
The 51-year old Francona took over the Red Sox in December of 2003, replacing Grady Little, and immediately led Boston to their first World Series in 86 seasons. The team extended his original three-year deal through 2008 and then, in February of that year, extended it once more, adding on three years to take it through 2011.
In his seven season with Boston, Francona has led the Red Sox to a 654-480 regular season record (.577), with at least 86 wins in every season and five years of 95 wins or more. His tenure also includes two World Series titles, four playoff appearances and an American League East title.