After lots of speculation, sources within the Boston Red Sox organization confirmed that general manager Theo Epstein will officially leave the team to become the new general manager of the Chicago Cubs, per Peter Abraham.
Two team sources confirmed reports that Theo Epstein has reached agreement with the Cubs on a five-year contract and will officially leave the Red Sox before the end of the week. The deal is believed to be worth $15 million with Epstein receiving what amounts to a $3.5 million signing bonus. (via Boston Globe)
Abraham writes that the Red Sox will receive compensation (either prospects or cash) for Epstein, who still had one year remaining on his current contract with the team. Many believe that Ben Cherington, currently the Vice President of Player Personnel of the Red Sox, is likely the top pick by the organization to replace Epstein. During his tenure in Boston, Epstein guided the Red Sox to two World Series titles in 2004 and 2007.
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