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Bobby Valentine Will Not Return as Red Sox Manager After Tumultuous 2012 Season

Bobby Valentine's time in Boston was not pretty, and on Thursday, as expected, the tumultuous year cost Valentine his job in Boston.

The Red Sox announced that Valentine would not return to the club. 

"Our 2012 season
was disappointing for many reasons," general manager Ben Cherington said in a release.  "No single issue is the reason, and no single individual is to
blame. We've been making personnel changes since August, and we will
continue to do so as we build a contending club. With an historic number
of injuries, Bobby was dealt a difficult hand.  He did the best he could
under seriously adverse circumstances, and I am thankful to him."

It was also announced that Cherington will lead the search for Valentine's successor. 

"This
year's won-loss record reflects a season of agony," said Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino said. "It begs for changes, some of which have
already transpired. More will come. We are determined to fix that
which is broken and return the Red Sox to the level of success we have
experienced over the past decade.

"Difficult as
it is to judge a manager amid a season that had an epidemic of injuries, we
feel we need to make changes. Bobby leaves the Red Sox' manager's office
with our respect, gratitude, and affection. I have no doubt that he will
continue to contribute to the game he loves so much and knows so well."

The Red Sox followed up a disappointing finish to the 2011 season by hiring Valentine, who reportedly butted heads with players as early back as spring training. From there, things didn't get any better. The Sox were simply awful all season, going 69-93, finishing last place in the American League East. It marked Boston's first losing season since 1997, and the 93 losses are the most since they lost 100 games in 1965. 

"I understand this decision," Valentine said. "This year in Boston has been
an incredible experience for me, but I am as disappointed in the results as are
ownership and the great fans of Red Sox Nation.

"It
was a privilege to be part of the 100-year anniversary of Fenway Park and an
honor to be in uniform with such great players and coaches.  My best to
the organization. I'm sure next year will be a turnaround year."

Click here to read more from Ben Cherington and Larry Lucchino about Valentine's exit and what's next for the Red Sox >>

Click here to read Terry Francona's comments about Valentine's exit >>