ATS Consultants posted on September 30, 2011 08:15
Even though Boston general manager Theo Epstein said that the organization didn't believe in scapegoats, it looks as though manager Terry Francona won't be back with the Red Sox in 2012.
Francona apparently will not return according to numerous sources. On Thursday, Boston had a news conference at Fenway Park. Epstein said upper management and ownership will take a breather and reassess everyone in the organization in the next few days -- including Francona. His options are worth $4.25 million each for 2012 and 2013.
Aside from their complete collapse in September and loss at Baltimore on Wednesday, the Red Sox apparently had many issues inside the clubhouse including a perceived lack of chemistry.
Francona started his coaching and managing career in the White Sox system, even serving as the manager of Double-A Birmingham when Michael Jordan played for the White Sox farm team. He has also worked with Chicago pitching coach Don Cooper, who received a four-year extension this week. That would make him an intriguing possibility for the White Sox, after they parted ways with Ozzie Guillen this past week,
The 52-year-old Francona has managed the Red Sox since 2004 and won two World Series titles during his tenure. He's 744-552 with two pennants and two World Series titles, but his teams have missed the playoffs the last two seasons despite having the second-highest payroll in the game.
This season, the Red Sox lost a nine-game lead in the American League wild-card race, going 7-20 in September.