The Red Sox have begun discussions to try and pry former pitching coach John Farrell away from his spot as Blue Jays manager, according to multiple reports.
On Wednesday, The Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo tweeted about the Sox remaining in contact with Toronto, and their lack of any future manager interviews scheduled after DeMarlo Hale‘s interview on Thursday.
Ben Cherington has nobodyscheduled to interview after Demarlo Hale tomorrow. The Sox trying to work out compensation for John Farrell.
— Nick Cafardo (@nickcafardo) October 17, 2012
On Thursday, WEEI.com’s Alex Speier confirmed Cafardo’s report on the Red Sox’ discussions with the Jays.
Since Bobby Valentine was fired after leading the Red Sox to the team’s worst record since 1965, Farrell has seemed to be the primary target of general manager Ben Cherington. However, Farrell is under contract with Toronto through 2013, and the Blue Jays are requesting compensation in exchange for allowing their manager to go.
The move would be similar to the one the Cubs did last season, when they gave the Red Sox relief pitcher Chris Carpenter in exchange for the services of then-general manager Theo Epstein. Epstein was named the president of the Cubs upon his arrival.
It’s not clear yet what Toronto is seeking from Boston in return for Farrell’s services. So far, the Red Sox have scheduled interviews with Tim Bogar, Brad Ausmus, Tony Pena and Hale for their managerial opening.