Red Sox news and notes

Here’s the latest news coming off of Yawkey Way this weekend:

•  “People around the game are getting the idea that Theo Epstein will likely remain as Boston’s GM” reported SI’s John Heyman via Twitter last night. There seems to be a growing chorus of writers who seem to think Epstein is leaning with staying with the Red Sox.
• According to club sources, it appears as if the Red Sox are going through a bit of succession planning. Ownership seems ‘excited’ about the idea of Asst. GM Ben Cherington assuming Theo Epstein’s role as General Manager. Ownership would like to promote Epstein to the role of President or CEO ala Ben Shapiro in Cleveland, but don’t feel the need to have him should he turn the offer down. Epstein is burnt out from the GM job, although he’d like to remain with the Red Sox. What’s throwing the wrench in the works is that Epstein really isn’t interested in a club President type role. Ownership would like to keep Epstein on for a year to guide Cherington into the new role, but don’t feel he’s 100% necessary to the process either. In sum: Theo’s welcome to come on board if he wants to, but won’t be needed if he chooses not to.
• Add Dodgers 3^rd base coach Tim Wallach to the shortlist of potential Red Sox managerial candidates. Michael Silverman of the Boston Globe said that Wallach “is still at the stage of being considered for an interview”. He joins Dave Martinez, Dave Mackanin and Sandy Alomar, Jr. as favorites for the post.
• It appears that the Red Sox may have a potential landing spot for starting pitcher John Lackey. The San Diego Padres appear to be interested in Lackey and rumors are being bandided about by Tom Krasovic and others that Orlando Hudson might be involved in the deal. The Red Sox would – of course – have to eat a significant portion of Lackey’s salary.
• Without a doubt – the Red Sox #1 priority from a player standpoint will be adding starting pitching. The market should be very competitive, as the Rangers and Yankees will also be sifting around. John Harper of the New York Daily News is already looking at the market and is getting indications that James Shields, Gio Gonzalez, Trevor Cahill, Mat Latos and Matt Cain may all be available this offseason. He’s also heard that the Yankees will not go to extremes to sign C.J. Wilson despite mutual interest. The Yankees will be willing to shop prospect Jesus Montero.

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