BOSTON — Larry Lucchino stepped down as the Red Sox’s president and CEO in August, but it turns out he won’t have to relinquish his title.
The club announced ahead of Boston’s game against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday that it named Lucchino president and CEO emeritus. The new role will be effective Oct. 16, when COO Sam Kennedy will officially take over as Red Sox president. Lucchino will retain his ownership stake and will be an active participant in discussions about the Red Sox and Major League Baseball.
“Larry has helped write a new chapter in the storied history of this franchise,” principal owner John Henry said. “He has brought boldness, vision, and intensity each day to Fenway Park. He has also assembled an outstanding team around him, the hallmark of a great CEO.
“Since 2012, we have known that it would be a natural transition for Sam to succeed Larry when he was ready to relinquish the reins. (Owner and chairman) Tom (Werner) and I feel fortunate that there is an obvious and strong successor within our organization.”
The Red Sox’s current ownership group purchased the team in 2002. In Lucchino’s 14 seasons with Boston, the team won three World series, invested over $300 million in renovations to Fenway Park and set the MLB record for consecutive sellouts.
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
